ORCID Profile
0000-0003-0413-5829
Current Organisation
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
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Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-08-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.CELREP.2022.111455
Abstract: Peripheral neuroblastic tumors (PNTs) represent a spectrum of neural-crest-derived tumors, including neuroblastoma, ganglioneuroblastoma, and ganglioneuroma. Malignant cells in PNTs are theorized to interconvert between adrenergic/noradrenergic and mesenchymal/neural crest cell states. Here, single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis of 10 PNTs demonstrates extensive transcriptomic heterogeneity. Trajectory modeling suggests that malignant neuroblasts move between adrenergic and mesenchymal cell states via an intermediate state that we term "transitional." Transitional cells express programs linked to a sympathoadrenal development and aggressive tumor phenotypes such as rapid proliferation and tumor dissemination. Among primary bulk tumor patient cohorts, high expression of the transitional gene signature is predictive of poor prognosis compared with adrenergic and mesenchymal expression patterns. High transitional gene expression in neuroblastoma cell lines identifies a similar transitional H3K27-acetylation super-enhancer landscape. Collectively, our study supports the concept that PNTs have phenotypic plasticity and uncovers potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-01-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S10900-015-9991-6
Abstract: Drowning is a frequently occurring and preventable public health issue. Internationally, drowning literature has focussed on children under 5 years, however, evidence based interventions to prevent adult drowning are needed to reduce deaths on a global scale. The aim of this paper is to systematically identify and analyse the evidence for drowning interventions with an adult focus. A systematic search was undertaken for peer-reviewed articles which were published in English between 1990 and 2012, focused on adults and described a drowning intervention. After quality appraisal by expert reviewers using a purposively tailored checklist, a final total of six studies were included for review. The six studies were all conducted in high income countries. Four were drowning interventions, two were retrospective analyses. The drowning interventions duration ranged from 10 days to 5 years, the analysis studies from 6 to 21 years. Two of the studies reviewed used behaviour change theory to inform development, and two reported formative evaluation. Prevention strategies included education (n = 3), technology (n = 1) and environmental (n = 1). Positive short term effects and significant behaviour change in life jacket use was reported (n = 2). A mixed effect was observed in the six studies. The complexity of the issues surrounding drowning requires the collection of robust data and evaluation of preventative measures to support the development of targeted and tailored prevention interventions. This review reinforces the need for a genuine and sustained global approach to addressing adult drowning prevention. Drowning is a serious public health issue and should receive the same attention as other public health priorities .
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-04-2016
DOI: 10.1071/HE15042
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 15-04-2018
Abstract: n high-income countries such as Australia, an increasing proportion of HIV cases have been acquired overseas, including among expatriates and travelers. Australia’s national strategies have highlighted the need for public health interventions for priority populations. One approach is to expand efforts to places or spaces where expatriate communities reside. Online settings such as forums used by expatriates and travelers have potential for preventing sexually transmissible infections with those hard to reach through more traditional interventions. ur objectives were to (1) identify and describe domains of social interaction and engagement in 1 online forum used by Australian expatriates and travelers living or working in Thailand and (2) make recommendations to health-promoting organizations and policy makers regarding the role of these forums in public health interventions with mobile populations who may be at risk of acquiring HIV or other sexually transmissible infections. e identified forums and users in 2 stages. We identified 13 online forums and analyzed them for inclusion criteria. We searched 1 forum that met the required criteria for users who met inclusion criteria (n=5). Discussion threads, rather than in idual posts, were units of analysis. For each user, we collected as transcripts the first 100 posts and 10 most recent posts, including the thread in which they were posted. We analyzed and thematically coded each post (n=550). Transcripts and analyses were reviewed and refined by multiple members of the research team to improve rigor. Themes were not totally emergent but explored against symbolic interactionism concepts of presentation of self, meaning, and socialization. ey domains were as follows: the forum (characteristics of the space and reasons for use), gaining access (forum hierarchy and rules), identity (presentation of self and role of language), advice, support, and information (sources of information, support provided, influencers, topics of discussion, and receptiveness to advice), and risk (expectations and perceptions). The forum exhibited evidence of unique language, rules and norms, and processes for managing conflict and key influencers. The forum was a substantial source of health information and advice provided to users via confirmation, reassurance, or affirmation of beliefs and experiences. Risk perception and expectations varied. Risk taking, including around sex, appeared to be a key expectation of travel or the experience of being an expatriate or traveler. ustralian expatriate and long-term traveler participation in the online forum formed, influenced, and reinforced knowledge, attitudes, interaction, and identity. Such forums can be used by policy makers and health-promoting organizations to provide supplementary sources of support and information to hard-to-reach mobile populations who may be at risk of acquiring HIV or other sexually transmissible infections. This will complement existing engagement with health professionals and other public health interventions.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 16-12-2022
Abstract: Migrants from culturally and linguistically erse (CaLD) backgrounds experience factors that may increase health inequities related to a range of determinants of health including housing and mental health. However, the intersection between mental health and housing for migrants is poorly understood. A scoping review searched four academic databases for concepts related to cultural and linguistic ersity, housing conditions, and public health interventions to address homelessness. A total of 49 articles were included and seven key themes identified: housing provision mental health intersections and interventions complexity and needs beyond housing substance use service provider and policy issues the role of cultural and linguistic ersity and consumer experience. The intersection of ethnicity with other social determinants of health and housing was highlighted though there were limited interventions tailored for migrants. Studies generally pointed to the positive impacts of Housing First. Other sub-themes emerged: social connection and community shame, stigma, and discrimination health and support requirements and employment, financial assistance, and income. Consumer choice was identified as vital, along with the need for systemic anti-racism work and interventions. To support secure housing for migrants and mitigate mental health impacts, closer attention is required towards migration factors along with broader, tailored services complementing housing provision.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-03-2021
DOI: 10.1038/S41467-021-22143-X
Abstract: To achieve the very high oncoprotein levels required to drive the malignant state cancer cells utilise the ubiquitin proteasome system to upregulate transcription factor levels. Here our analyses identify ALYREF , expressed from the most common genetic copy number variation in neuroblastoma, chromosome 17q21-ter gain as a key regulator of MYCN protein turnover. We show strong co-operativity between ALYREF and MYCN from transgenic models of neuroblastoma in vitro and in vivo. The two proteins form a nuclear coactivator complex which stimulates transcription of the ubiquitin specific peptidase 3, USP3. We show that increased USP3 levels reduce K-48- and K-63-linked ubiquitination of MYCN, thus driving up MYCN protein stability. In the MYCN-ALYREF-USP3 signal, ALYREF is required for MYCN effects on the malignant phenotype and that of USP3 on MYCN stability. This data defines a MYCN oncoprotein dependency state which provides a rationale for future pharmacological studies.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 16-12-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-11-2022
DOI: 10.1002/IJC.34349
Abstract: The mitochondrion is a gatekeeper of apoptotic processes, and mediates drug resistance to several chemotherapy agents used to treat cancer. Neuroblastoma is a common solid cancer in young children with poor clinical outcomes following conventional chemotherapy. We sought druggable mitochondrial protein targets in neuroblastoma cells. Among mitochondria‐associated gene targets, we found that high expression of the mitochondrial adenine nucleotide translocase 2 ( SLC25A5/ANT2 ), was a strong predictor of poor neuroblastoma patient prognosis and contributed to a more malignant phenotype in pre‐clinical models. Inhibiting this transporter with PENAO reduced cell viability in a panel of neuroblastoma cell lines in a TP53 ‐status‐dependant manner. We identified the histone deacetylase inhibitor, suberanilohydroxamic acid (SAHA), as the most effective drug in clinical use against mutant TP53 neuroblastoma cells. SAHA and PENAO synergistically reduced cell viability, and induced apoptosis, in neuroblastoma cells independent of TP53 ‐status. The SAHA and PENAO drug combination significantly delayed tumour progression in pre‐clinical neuroblastoma mouse models, suggesting that these clinically advanced inhibitors may be effective in treating the disease.
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 18-09-2023
Publisher: American Society of Hematology
Date: 21-10-2021
Abstract: Changes in gene regulation and expression govern orderly transitions from hematopoietic stem cells to terminally differentiated blood cell types. These transitions are disrupted during leukemic transformation, but knowledge of the gene regulatory changes underpinning this process is elusive. We hypothesized that identifying core gene regulatory networks in healthy hematopoietic and leukemic cells could provide insights into network alterations that perturb cell state transitions. A heptad of transcription factors (LYL1, TAL1, LMO2, FLI1, ERG, GATA2, and RUNX1) bind key hematopoietic genes in human CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) and have prognostic significance in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). These factors also form a densely interconnected circuit by binding combinatorially at their own, and each other’s, regulatory elements. However, their mutual regulation during normal hematopoiesis and in AML cells, and how perturbation of their expression levels influences cell fate decisions remains unclear. In this study, we integrated bulk and single-cell data and found that the fully connected heptad circuit identified in healthy HSPCs persists, with only minor alterations in AML, and that chromatin accessibility at key heptad regulatory elements was predictive of cell identity in both healthy progenitors and leukemic cells. The heptad factors GATA2, TAL1, and ERG formed an integrated subcircuit that regulates stem cell-to-erythroid transition in both healthy and leukemic cells. Components of this triad could be manipulated to facilitate erythroid transition providing a proof of concept that such regulatory circuits can be harnessed to promote specific cell-type transitions and overcome dysregulated hematopoiesis.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-03-2020
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.331
Abstract: Understanding the health behaviours of Australian university students and their impact on wellbeing and academic success is important however, there are limited reliable, population level survey tools to measure student health across a range of domains. The purpose of the research was to determine the reliability of the web‐based University Student Health and Wellbeing Study (USHWS) survey via a test‐retest reliability study within a large Australian university student population. A test‐retest of the measurement instrument was completed by a s le of university students (n = 195) over a two‐week period. The instrument assessed alcohol and tobacco use, mental health, sexual health, physical activity, nutrition and sun protective behaviours. Test‐retest reliability was analysed using two‐way random effects model of intraclass correlations (ICC) and AC 1 coefficient for in idual measurements with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Questions on demographics, general health, nutrition, sun protection, alcohol and tobacco use, mental health and sexual health had fair to high reliability (ICCs range from 0.32 to 1.00). Reliability of some physical activity items were poor with large variability (ICC = 0.15, 95% CI 0.01‐0.28 to 0.86, 95% CI 0.82‐0.89). A majority of the USHWS survey items represented a moderate to high test‐retest reliability. Variability and poor reliability of physical activity questions may be due to survey implementation time and usual behaviour changes. The USHWS survey is reliable instrument to assess Australian university student health at a population level with the aim of informing effective programming, policy and initiatives. The University Student Health and Wellbeing Study (USHWS) survey is a foundational tool to understand university student’s health in Australia. The USHWS reported fair to high reliability with few physical activity items showing lower reliability. Greater variability may be due to usual day‐to‐day fluctuations in behaviour.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 2013
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-05-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-04-2020
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 16-05-2020
DOI: 10.1101/2020.05.15.097469
Abstract: Peripheral neuroblastic tumors (PNTs) are the most common extracranial solid tumors in early childhood. They represent a spectrum of neural crest derived tumors including neuroblastoma, ganglioneuroblastoma and ganglioneuroma. PNTs exhibit heterogeneity due to interconverting malignant cell states described as adrenergic/nor-adrenergic or mesenchymal/neural crest cell in origin. The factors determining in idual patient levels of tumor heterogeneity, their impact on the malignant phenotype, and the presence of other cell states are unknown. Here, single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis of 4267 cells from 7 PNTs demonstrated extensive transcriptomic heterogeneity. Trajectory modelling showed that malignant neuroblasts move between adrenergic and mesenchymal cell states via a novel state that we termed a “transitional” phenotype. Transitional cells are characterized by gene expression programs linked to a sympathoadrenal development, and aggressive tumor phenotypes such as rapid proliferation and tumor dissemination. Among primary bulk tumor patient cohorts, high expression of the transitional gene signature was highly predictive of poor prognosis when compared to adrenergic and mesenchymal expression patterns. High transitional gene expression in neuroblastoma cell lines identified a similar transitional H3K27-acetylation super-enhancer landscape, supporting the concept that PNTs have phenotypic plasticity and transdifferentiation capacity. Additionally, examination of PNT microenvironments, found that neuroblastomas contained low immune cell infiltration, high levels of non-inflammatory macrophages, and low cytotoxic T lymphocyte levels compared with more benign PNT subtypes. Modeling of cell-cell signaling in the tumor microenvironment predicted specific paracrine effects toward the various subtypes of malignant cells, suggesting further cell-extrinsic influences on malignant cell phenotype. Collectively, our study reveals the presence of a previously unrecognized transitional cell state with high malignant potential and an immune cell architecture which serve both as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 09-04-2021
Abstract: There is significant debate regarding the regulation of the sex industry, with a complex range of cultural, political and social factors influencing regulatory models which vary considerably between and within countries. This systematic review examined the available evidence on the relationship between different approaches to sex industry regulation in high-income countries, and associated effects on sex worker health status. Objectives included identification of sex worker health outcomes, including sexual health, substance use and experience of stigma and violence. A search was performed electronically in eight scholarly databases which yielded 95 articles which met the criteria for inclusion. Findings suggested that sex workers in legalised and decriminalized countries demonstrated greater health outcomes, including awareness of health conditions and risk factors.
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1071/SH13155
Abstract: Background Increasing international mobility has led to a growth of cross-border HIV transmission around the world. In Australia, increasing rates of HIV infections acquired overseas have been reported, particularly among men. This qualitative study explored experiences and risk perceptions of 14 Australian men who acquired HIV while living or travelling overseas from the year 2000. Methods: Symbolic interaction provided the study’s theoretical perspective and analytical framework. Australian men living with HIV who were aged 18 years and older, believed they had acquired their infection while working or travelling overseas during or after the year 2000, and were diagnosed from 2003 onwards were eligible to participate. A semistructured interview schedule was developed and tested for content validity with the study reference group. Analysis was conducted using an adapted form of grounded theory to form the basis for the development of the experiences domains. Results: Analysis produced four domains of experience: (1) a fantasy realised, (2) escaping and finding a new self or life, (3) living a life less ordinary and (4) living local but still an outsider. The description of the four experience domains highlights how risk generally, particularly sexual risk, did or did not feature in these men’s understanding of their experiences. Conclusion: Perceptions and experiences of long-term travel played a decisive role for men who acquired HIV when travelling overseas. Appealing to desired experiences such as connection to local culture or sustaining a new or adventurous life may provide important implications for guiding health promotion programs and policy.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-07-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-03-2021
DOI: 10.1038/S41388-021-01712-W
Abstract: Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors are effective in MYCN-driven cancers, because of a unique need for HDAC recruitment by the MYCN oncogenic signal. However, HDAC inhibitors are much more effective in combination with other anti-cancer agents. To identify novel compounds which act synergistically with HDAC inhibitor, such as suberanoyl hydroxamic acid (SAHA), we performed a cell-based, high-throughput drug screen of 10,560 small molecule compounds from a drug-like ersity library and identified a small molecule compound (SE486-11) which synergistically enhanced the cytotoxic effects of SAHA. Effects of drug combinations on cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis and colony forming were assessed in a panel of neuroblastoma cell lines. Treatment with SAHA and SE486-11 increased MYCN ubiquitination and degradation, and markedly inhibited tumorigenesis in neuroblastoma xenografts, and, MYCN transgenic zebrafish and mice. The combination reduced ubiquitin-specific protease 5 (USP5) levels and increased unanchored polyubiquitin chains. Overexpression of USP5 rescued neuroblastoma cells from the cytopathic effects of the combination and reduced unanchored polyubiquitin, suggesting USP5 is a therapeutic target of the combination. SAHA and SE486-11 directly bound to USP5 and the drug combination exhibited a 100-fold higher binding to USP5 than in idual drugs alone in microscale thermophoresis assays. MYCN bound to the USP5 promoter and induced USP5 gene expression suggesting that USP5 and MYCN expression created a forward positive feedback loop in neuroblastoma cells. Thus, USP5 acts as an oncogenic cofactor with MYCN in neuroblastoma and the novel combination of HDAC inhibitor with SE486-11 represents a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of MYCN-driven neuroblastoma.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-07-2021
DOI: 10.1038/S41467-021-24442-9
Abstract: Spi-1 Proto-Oncogene (SPI1) fusion genes are recurrently found in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) cases but are insufficient to drive leukemogenesis. Here we show that SPI1 fusions in combination with activating NRAS mutations drive an immature T-ALL in vivo using a conditional bone marrow transplant mouse model. Addition of the oncogenic fusion to the NRAS mutation also results in a higher leukemic stem cell frequency. Mechanistically, genetic deletion of the β-catenin binding domain within Transcription factor 7 ( TCF7)-SPI1 or use of a TCF/β-catenin interaction antagonist abolishes the oncogenic activity of the fusion. Targeting the TCF7-SPI1 fusion in vivo with a doxycycline-inducible knockdown results in increased differentiation. Moreover, both pharmacological and genetic inhibition lead to down-regulation of SPI1 targets. Together, our results reveal an ex le where TCF7-SPI1 leukemia is vulnerable to pharmacological targeting of the TCF/β-catenin interaction.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-05-2016
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 26-10-2020
DOI: 10.1101/2020.10.26.353797
Abstract: Changes in gene regulation and expression govern orderly transitions from hematopoietic stem cells to terminally differentiated blood cell types. These transitions are disrupted during leukemic transformation but knowledge of the gene regulatory changes underpinning this process is elusive. We hypothesised that identifying core gene regulatory networks in healthy hematopoietic and leukemic cells could provide insights into network alterations that perturb cell state transitions. A heptad of transcription factors (LYL1, TAL1, LMO2, FLI1, ERG, GATA2, RUNX1) bind key hematopoietic genes in human CD34+ haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) and have prognostic significance in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). These factors also form a densely interconnected circuit by binding combinatorially at their own, and each other’s, regulatory elements. However, their mutual regulation during normal haematopoiesis and in AML cells, and how perturbation of their expression levels influences cell fate decisions remains unclear. Here, we integrated bulk and single cell data and found that the fully connected heptad circuit identified in healthy HSPCs persists with only minor alterations in AML, and that chromatin accessibility at key heptad regulatory elements was predictive of cell identity in both healthy progenitors and in leukemic cells. The heptad factors GATA2, TAL1 and ERG formed an integrated sub-circuit that regulates stem cell to erythroid transition in both healthy and leukemic cells. Components of this triad could be manipulated to facilitate erythroid transition providing a proof of concept that such regulatory circuits could be harnessed to promote specific cell type transitions and overcome dysregulated haematopoiesis.
Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Date: 11-2019
DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-19-1112
Abstract: Competitive chemical inhibition of the PA2G4–MYCN protein interface provides a basis for drug design of small molecules targeting MYC and MYCN-binding partners in malignancies driven by MYC family oncoproteins.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-10-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S10900-015-0105-2
Abstract: Globally, drowning is one of the ten leading causes of child mortality. Children aged <5 years are particularly at risk, and children and young people continue to be overrepresented in drowning statistics. Accordingly, evidence informed interventions to prevent children drowning are of global importance. This review aimed to identify, assess and analyse public health interventions to reduce child drowning and investigate the use of behavioural theories and evaluation frameworks to guide child drowning prevention. Thirteen databases were searched for relevant peer reviewed articles. The systematic review was guided by the PRISMA criteria and registered with PROSPERO. Fifteen articles were included in the final review. Studies were delivered in high, middle and low income countries. Intervention designs varied, one-third of studies targeted children under five. Almost half of the studies relied on education and information to reduce drowning deaths, only three studies used a multi-strategy approach. Minimal use of behavioural theories and/or frameworks was found and just one-third of the studies described formative evaluation. This review reveals an over reliance on education and information as a strategy to prevent drowning, despite evidence for comprehensive multi-strategy approaches. Accordingly, interventions must be supported that use a range of strategies, are shaped by theory and planning and evaluation frameworks, and are robust in intervention design, delivery and evaluation methodology. This approach will provide sound evidence that can be disseminated to inform future practice and policy for drowning prevention.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-02-2023
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.704
Abstract: Housing is a social determinant of health. Migrants are at an increased risk of insecure housing, overcrowding, and homelessness which can lead to poor quality of life and well‐being. This study aimed to identify clustering patterns of homelessness risks among people from culturally and linguistically erse (CaLD) backgrounds in Western Australia (WA). Participants from CaLD backgrounds ( n = 143, 81.8% male) were identified from secondary cross‐sectional data sourced from Vulnerability Index Service Prioritisation Decision Assistance Tool (VI‐SPDAT) surveys conducted with people experiencing homelessness in Perth, WA, between 2012 and 2020. A two‐step cluster analysis was used to identify subgroups within the data, and chi‐square tests compared demographic characteristics and drivers of homelessness among the determined clusters. Three distinct clusters were identified and labelled as ‘high‐risk group’ ( n = 50, 35.0%), ‘medium‐risk group’ ( n = 39, 27.3%) and ‘low‐risk group’ ( n = 47, 32.9%). The most vulnerable participants (with VI‐SPDAT score ≥ 10) were all clustered in the ‘high‐risk group’. The analysis identified subgroups within and between CaLD populations and highlighted limitations with data collection instruments for measuring homelessness among these groups. To prevent health issues associated with homelessness and improve social determinants of health, improvements in research and service provision are recommended to facilitate equitable access to secure housing for people from CaLD populations.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-03-2021
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.466
Abstract: Ethical values underpin the health promotion discipline and profession, and competencies required for professional practice. Understanding how ethical values are translated into professional practice is critical. The aim of this exploratory sequential mixed methods study was to explore Australian health promotion stakeholder perspectives about ethical health promotion practice. A face‐to‐face group‐based workshop (n = 15), online survey (n = 77) and in‐depth in idual interviews (n = 15) collected qualitative and quantitative data from health promotion stakeholders. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative and thematic analysis to analyse qualitative data. Tensions emerged regarding the nomenclature of ethical health promotion practice, with ethics framed largely by participants as related to formal approval for research. A range of barriers and enablers to ethical practice were identified. Barriers related to obtaining ethical approvals and working with specific population groups and communities. Enablers included professional development opportunities, access to a specialised human research ethics committee and a better understanding of what is meant by ‘ethical practice’. Findings suggest the need for an ethical health promotion practice framework and resources for practitioners and organisations throughout Australia. We propose a framework comprising two pillars: (a) developing critical practice and (b) building the evidence‐based for health promotion. This study recognises the need for increased dialogue about the ethical foundations of health promotion. The development of a health promotion ethics framework can better support the development of ethical practice in the Australian health promotion discipline and profession.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-07-2019
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.269
Abstract: Since 1986, injury prevention and control has been classified as a National Health Priority. However, no reviews into the injury prevention workforce have been conducted in Australia since 2011 and to date none has focused specifically on the injury prevention and safety promotion sector in Western Australia (WA). This research sought to review the scope of the injury prevention and safety promotion workforce in WA to gain a greater understanding of sector characteristics, work and needs. An online, cross-sectional survey was conducted between mid-January and mid-March 2018. Participants were required to be: (a) based in WA or have a program running within WA and (b) working in injury prevention and safety promotion relating to programs, policy or legislation development, implementation and/or evaluation within intentional (eg interpersonal violence, suicide and self-harm) or unintentional injuries (eg transport, poisoning, falls, drowning, burns) or farm, child and community, occupational health and safety, sport and recreation and trauma. The research found that participants were predominantly female (82%), aged 40 years or older (66.1%) and were employed full time (55.6%). The majority of participants worked in falls prevention (38.5%), alcohol and other drugs (38.0%), injury in general (31.8%) and community safety (30.7%). Findings demonstrate significant heterogeneity with a core workforce supported by a range of non-core and indirect actors. Identifying characteristics and needs of the workforce supports coordinated capacity building to implement effective injury prevention and safety promotion initiatives. With this being the first review of the workforce in WA, this article highlights the need to more regularly audit the sector to determine its breadth and composition. SO WHAT?: In the light of the recent announcement by the Commonwealth for a new national Injury Prevention Strategy, this study provides timely insights into the injury prevention and safety promotion sector in WA.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-07-2022
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.522
Abstract: The aim of this study was to explore factors associated with drowning among older adults aged 65 years and over in Western Australia. This paper was concerned with illuminating older adults experience and perspectives of water safety and drowning prevention. The study used in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews (n = 15) to examine knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and behaviours. The interviews were analysed using a phenomenological hermeneutical interpretation whereby three steps were taken to identify common patterns of meaning from in idual's lifeworld. Interviews captured the voices of those who identified as swimmers and those who identified as nonswimmers and revealed nine constitutive patterns which support a central theme of life around water. This study provides insights into perceptions and experiences of water safety as in iduals’ age. The findings suggest in iduals who perceived themselves as strong swimmers had a decreased perception of risk, while participants who self‐identified as weak swimmers were more likely to avoid risks and modified their behaviour accordingly. Findings highlighted low water safety literacy and suggest that older people not only underestimate their drowning risk, but also lack an understanding of the risk factors for drowning. The findings from this study will have a direct impact on the development of a WA health promotion program to prevent drowning among older adults.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-03-2022
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.588
Abstract: In Australia, the role of local governments authorities (LGAs) are erse, ranging from waste collection to the provision of recreational facilities, such as parks. One strategy to improve parks is outdoor exercise equipment (OEE), and provide free, community‐based physical activity opportunities. We undertook an observational study to capture a profile and behaviour of park visitors and OEE users in 2012 and 2019. We compared observational data at two parks using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) in March and June 2012 and 2019. Data were collected 6:30‐7:30 AM and 5:30‐6:30 PM weekdays 8:30‐9:30 AM and 3:30 to 4:30 PM weekends. Two trained staff collected data concurrently. Total n = 1654 visitors were observed, most at Park One (68.0% n = 1117), half were male (50.9% n = 841). There were significant differences in the gender of visitors across the two parks ( P 0.001). Most visitors observed were young adults (42.6% n = 705 P 0.001). In 2012, 3.9% (n = 65) of all observed park visitors used the OEE, in 2019, this increased to 4.8 % (n = 78). The adage ‘Build it, and they will come’ did not resonate with the two parks' local community. The key challenge is attracting people to local parks making OEE use attractive and easy. There is a demand for the provision of active environments that are accessible and inexpensive. LGAs may hold the key to delivering this infrastructure supported by erse strategies to engage and promote the benefits of being physically active for all ages.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-06-2019
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.267
Abstract: Drowning is a leading cause of death globally. Opportunities to promote drowning prevention in news media may be overlooked for attention-grabbing headlines, imagery and narrative. This study examines news media coverage of fatal drowning events in Western Australia (WA). Coronial fatal drowning data in WA were extracted for two summer time periods (2014-2016) by date, age, gender, location and description. Corresponding print and online news articles were captured using: (i) Media Alert (ii) Google News (iii) Factiva. A content and frame analysis protocol was developed. A qualitative approach was taken to analyse the news angle. A subgroup analysis was undertaken for drowning focused articles. The final s le (n = 50) news articles matched 17 in idual drowning events (T1, n = 9 T2, n = 8). Drowning stories rarely appeared on page 1 (n = 2), but were located in the first 2-10 pages (n = 20) (66.6%). In the subanalysis, one-fifth (22%) of the articles employed a news angle relating to community spirit and celebration of life. There were 32 mentions of "who was responsible for the drowning event." Environmental factors were most cited for "what was responsible" (20.4%). Experts were cited in 66.7% of articles and drowning prevention strategies were mentioned in nine of the 50 articles. Drowning was considered newsworthy however, not the front page news. Reporting infrequently prioritised drowning prevention or discussed prevention strategies. SO WHAT?: Working closely with news outlets to embed drowning prevention messages in news stories during high-risk periods such as summer is an imperative.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 29-08-2023
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 05-09-2018
DOI: 10.2196/10787
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 18-04-2020
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.342
Abstract: University students regularly report alcohol consumption in excess of Australian guidelines for harm. However, previous studies have overlooked the experiences of mature‐aged students. This study assessed alcohol consumption and alcohol‐related harms among university students aged 18‐50 years old in Australia. A cross‐sectional online survey with convenience s le of university students was used in this study. Unadjusted ordinal logistic regressions were performed to explore associations between student characteristics and frequency of alcohol consumption as well as number of standard drinks consumed. Logistic regressions adjusted for student characteristics were performed to assess associations between alcohol consumptions and alcohol‐related harm. Of the respondents (n = 486), 82% consumed alcohol, of which 50% consumed more than two standard drinks on any day. Age was significantly associated with amount consumed and blackout. Students aged 31‐50 years were less likely to consume more than two standard drinks on any day (odds ratio, OR: 0.62, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.40, 0.97) and less likely to experience blackout (OR: 0.45 95% CI: 0.25, 0.83) than those aged 18‐20 years. Interestingly, reducing consumption to no more than once a month, when compared to more than twice a month, reduced risk of blackout only for those aged less than 31‐50 years old (adjusted OR: 0.22 95% CI: 0.04, 1.13). Older university students are less likely to drink more than two standard drinks on any day than their younger counterparts. It is recommended that interventions target younger students however, older students may assist in understanding factors that influence low risk alcohol consumption.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 22-06-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-01-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S10900-023-01189-6
Abstract: Adult drowning is a complex and multifactorial public health challenge requiring community, national and global efforts to mitigate impacts. This study updates the evidence base for public health interventions that address adult fatal and non-fatal drowning. A systematic review was undertaken of the peer-reviewed literature for English-language primary studies published between 2011 and 2021describing a drowning intervention with adults. Twenty-two studies were included. Most studies (n = 16) were conducted in high-income countries. Yearly trends in drowning prevention intervention publications were analysed with 2015 (n = 6) the peak publishing year. Over half of the study designs were pre-post (n = 15). Intervention duration ranged from 4 hours to 11 years. Ten studies described either behaviour change theory or formative evaluation to inform design. Thirteen studies targeted interventions at a population level, seven at a group level and two at in idual level. Studies identified a range of prevention strategies, categorised as behavioural (n = 9) (e.g., swimming lessons), socio-ecological (n = 8) (e.g., mandatory personal flotation devices) and mixed (n = 5) (e.g., awareness c aign and barriers to prevent access to water). A range of outcomes were described including changes in awareness, water safety knowledge, attitudes, water safety behaviours and skills, environmental, policy and regulation changes and drowning rates. Findings indicate a small but important increase in the evaluation and publication of effective interventions to prevent adult drowning. The complexity of the issues surrounding drowning requires multi-strategy and context -specific adult focused prevention interventions. Contemporary evidence that identifies effective interventions that contribute to prevention efforts is an essential first step in addressing the challenge.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 23-05-2022
Abstract: Rearrangements of the Mixed Lineage Leukemia ( MLL/KMT2A ) gene are present in approximately 10% of acute leukemias and characteristically define disease with poor outcome. Driven by the unmet need to develop better therapies for KMT2A-rearranged leukemia, we previously discovered that the novel anti-cancer agent, curaxin CBL0137, induces decondensation of chromatin in cancer cells, delays leukemia progression and potentiates standard of care chemotherapies in preclinical KMT2A-rearranged leukemia models. Based on the promising potential of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors as targeted anti-cancer agents for KMT2A-rearranged leukemia and the fact that HDAC inhibitors also decondense chromatin via an alternate mechanism, we investigated whether CBL0137 could potentiate the efficacy of the HDAC inhibitor panobinostat in KMT2A-rearranged leukemia models. The combination of CBL0137 and panobinostat rapidly killed KMT2A-rearranged leukemia cells by apoptosis and significantly delayed leukemia progression and extended survival in an aggressive model of MLL-AF9 ( KMT2A:MLLT3 ) driven murine acute myeloid leukemia. The drug combination also exerted a strong anti-leukemia response in a rapidly progressing xenograft model derived from an infant with KMT2A-rearranged acute lymphoblastic leukemia, significantly extending survival compared to either monotherapy. The therapeutic enhancement between CBL0137 and panobinostat in KMT2A-r leukemia cells does not appear to be mediated through cooperative effects of the drugs on KMT2A rearrangement-associated histone modifications. Our data has identified the CBL0137 anobinostat combination as a potential novel targeted therapeutic approach to improve outcome for KMT2A-rearranged leukemia.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 15-02-2014
DOI: 10.1093/NTR/NTU012
Abstract: A large Australian university introduced a c uswide smoke-free policy in 2012. Almost 1 year after implementation, reasons for noncompliance among people observed smoking on c us were examined. Six smoking locations on c us were identified after a c uswide audit of smoking indicators (i.e., discarded cigarette butts packets and people observed smoking). At these locations, those observed smokers were interviewed. Interview responses were examined to elicit underlying themes. Fifty people were seen smoking during the observation period. Those smokers interviewed comprised staff (27%) and students (73%) aged between 18 and 24 (45.9%). The majority of the students were international students (51.8%). All respondents acknowledged their awareness of the smoke-free policy. Five explanatory themes for noncompliance emerged: defiance against the policy's perceived threat to self-governance inconvenience to travel off c us to smoke smoking as a physiological necessity unintentional noncompliance through unawareness or confusion of policy boundaries and ease of avoidance of detection or exposing others to cigarette smoke. Creating a culture of compliance at the university remains a significant challenge, especially considering the size of the c us, the high proportion of international students, and the logistics associated with monitoring smoking behavior in outdoor areas and on-c us student housing.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-02-2015
No related grants have been discovered for Janith Ananda Seneviratne.