ORCID Profile
0000-0002-5424-7573
Current Organisation
Flinders University
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Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.1017/S0266462320002238
Abstract: Over the past few years, there has been an increasing recognition of the value of public involvement in health technology assessment (HTA) to ensure the legitimacy and fairness of public funding decisions [Street J, Stafinski T, Lopes E, Menon D. Defining the role of the public in Health Technology Assessment (HTA) and HTA-informed decision-making processes. Int J Technol Assess Health Care . 2020 :87–95]. However, important challenges remain, in particular, how to reorient HTA to reflect public priorities. In a recent international survey of thirty HTA agencies conducted by the International Network of Agencies for HTA (INAHTA), public engagement in HTA was listed as one of the “Top 10” challenges for HTA agencies [O'Rourke B, Werko SS, Merlin T, Huang LY, Schuller T. The “Top 10” challenges for health technology assessment: INAHTA viewpoint. Int J Technol Assess . 2020 :1–4]. Historically, Australia has been at the forefront of the application of HTA for assessing the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of new health technologies to inform public funding decisions. However, current HTA processes in Australia lack meaningful public inputs. Using Australia as an ex le, we describe this important limitation and discuss the potential impact of this gap on the health system and future directions.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-08-2010
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-10-2016
DOI: 10.1111/HEX.12493
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPOL.2015.04.013
Abstract: High prevalence of overweight and obesity remains a significant international public health problem. Law has been identified as a tool for obesity prevention and selected high-profile measures have been reported. However, the nature and extent of enacted legislation internationally are unclear. This research provides an overview of regulatory approaches enacted in the United States, the European Union, and EU Member States since 2004. To this end, relevant databases of primary and secondary legislation were systematically searched to identify and explore laws addressing dietary risk factors for obesity. Across jurisdictions, current regulatory approaches to obesity prevention are limited in reach and scope. Target groups are rarely the general population, but instead sub-populations in government-supported settings. Consumer information provision is preferred over taxation and marketing restrictions other than the regulation of health and nutrition claims. In the EU in particular, product reformulation with industry consent has also emerged as a popular small-scale measure. While consistent and widespread use of law is lacking, governments have employed a range of regulatory measures in the name of obesity prevention, indicating that there is, in principle, political will. Results from this study may serve as a starting point for future research and policy development.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 18-04-2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-05-2014
Abstract: Measures to improve the quality and sustainability of healthcare practice and provision have become a policy concern. In addition, the involvement of stakeholders in health policy decision-making has been advocated, as complex questions arise around the structure of funding arrangements in a context of limited resources. Using a case study of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), deliberative engagements with a range of stakeholder groups were held on the topic of how best to structure the distribution of Australian public funding in this domain. Deliberative engagements were carried out with groups of ART consumers, clinicians and community members. The forums were informed by a systematic review of ART treatment safety and effectiveness (focusing, in particular, on maternal age and number of treatment cycles), as well as by international policy comparisons, and ethical and cost analyses. Forum discussions were transcribed and subject to thematic analysis. Each forum demonstrated stakeholders’ capacity to understand concepts of choice under resource scarcity and disinvestment, and to countenance options for ART funding not always aligned with their interests. Deliberations in each engagement identified concerns around ‘equity’ and ‘patient responsibility’, culminating in a broad preference for (potential) ART subsidy restrictions to be based upon in idual factors rather than maternal age or number of treatment cycles. Community participants were open to restrictions based upon measures of body mass index (BMI) and smoking status, while consumers and clinicians saw support to improve these factors as part of an ART treatment program, as distinct from a funding criterion. All groups advocated continued patient co-payments, with measures in place to provide treatment access to those unable to pay (namely, equity of access). Deliberations yielded qualitative, socially-negotiated evidence required to inform ethical, accountable policy decisions in the specific area of ART and health care more broadly. Notably, reductionist, deterministic characterizations of stakeholder ‘self-interest’ proved unfounded as each group sought to prioritise universal values (in particular, ‘equity’ and ‘responsibility’) over specific, within-group concerns. Our results - from an emotive case study in ART - highlight that evidence-informed disinvestment decision-making is feasible, and potentially less controversial than often presumed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2012
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 30-04-2023
DOI: 10.3390/V15051102
Abstract: Dengue virus (DENV) non-structural protein 1 (NS1) is involved in multiple aspects of the DENV lifecycle. Importantly, it is secreted from infected cells as a hexameric lipoparticle that mediates vascular damage that is a hallmark of severe dengue. Although the secretion of NS1 is known to be important in DENV pathogenesis, the exact molecular features of NS1 that are required for its secretion from cells are not fully understood. In this study, we employed random point mutagenesis in the context of an NS1 expression vector encoding a C-terminal HiBiT luminescent peptide tag to identify residues within NS1 that are essential for its secretion. Using this approach, we identified 10 point mutations that corresponded with impaired NS1 secretion, with in silico analyses indicating that the majority of these mutations are located within the β-ladder domain. Additional studies on two of these mutants, V220D and A248V, revealed that they prevented viral RNA replication, while studies using a DENV NS1-NS5 viral polyprotein expression system demonstrated that these mutations resulted in a more reticular NS1 localisation pattern and failure to detect mature NS1 at its predicted molecular weight by Western blotting using a conformation-specific monoclonal antibody. Together, these studies demonstrate that the combination of a luminescent peptide tagged NS1 expression system with random point mutagenesis enables rapid identification of mutations that alter NS1 secretion. Two such mutations identified via this approach revealed residues that are essential for correct NS1 processing or maturation and viral RNA replication.
Publisher: Elsevier
Date: 2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2018
Abstract: Including and prioritising community voice in policy development means policy is more likely to reflect community values and priorities. This project trialled and evaluated a storyboard approach in a deliberative community forum to engage Australian Aboriginal people in health policy priority setting. The forum was co-constructed with two Aboriginal community-controlled organisations. A circle storyboard was used to centre Aboriginal community knowledge and values and encourage the group to engage with broader perspectives and evidence. The forum asked a erse (descriptively representative) group of Aboriginal people in a rural town what governments should do to support the wellbeing of children and youth, particularly to encourage them to eat well and be active. The storyboard provided a tactile device to allow shared stories and identification of community issues. The group identified policies they believed governments should prioritise, including strategies to combat racism and provide local supports and outlets for young people. An informed deliberative storyboard approach offers a novel way of engaging with Aboriginal communities in a culturally appropriate and inclusive manner. Implications for public health: The identification of racism as a major issue of concern in preventing children from living healthy lifestyles highlights the need for policy responses in this area.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2010.01.013
Abstract: Despite attempts at clear direction in international, national and journal guidelines, attribution of authorship can be a confusing area for both new and established researchers. As journal articles are valuable intellectual property, authorship can be hotly contested. In idual authors' responsibilities for the integrity of article content have not been well explored. Semi-structured interviews (n = 17) were conducted with staff, student advocates and doctoral candidates working in health research in two universities in Australia. Stratified s ling ensured participants reflected a range of experience across biomedical, clinical and social science disciplines. Participants were asked about their experience with research publication and their views on the responsibilities of authorship. Participants gave a variety of reasons for attribution of authorship including: writing the paper seniority and student supervision. Gift authorship was seen by some participants as: a way of maintaining relationships a reward a means to increase a paper's credibility or a demonstration of collaboration between authors. Norms and beliefs differed markedly between disciplines for authorship attribution and, to a lesser extent, for authors' responsibility for content integrity. Discussions about the effect of power differentials on authorship were common across disciplines. This paper describes a broad range of beliefs, values and practice norms held by health science researchers with respect to attribution of authorship and author responsibility for scientific publications. The findings support the need for clarity in relation to authorship, and a research environment which is supportive of ethical behaviour in the publication of research.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 14-09-2020
Abstract: he use of government health data for secondary purposes, such as monitoring the quality of hospital services, researching the health needs of populations, and testing how well new treatments work, is increasing. This increase in the secondary uses of health data has led to increased interest in what the public thinks about data sharing, in particular, the possibilities of sharing with the private sector for research and development. Although international evidence demonstrates broad public support for the secondary use of health data, this support does not extend to sharing health data with the private sector. If governments intend to share health data with the private sector, knowing what the public thinks will be important. This paper reports a national survey to explore public attitudes in Australia toward sharing health data with private companies for research on and development of therapeutic drugs and medical devices. his study aims to explore public attitudes in Australia toward sharing government health data with the private sector. web-based survey tool was developed to assess attitudes about sharing government health data with the private sector. A market research company was employed to administer the web-based survey in June 2019. he survey was completed by 2537 in iduals residing in Australia. Between 51.8% and 57.98% of all participants were willing to share their data, with slightly fewer in favor of sharing to improve health services (51.99%) and a slightly higher proportion in favor of sharing for research and development (57.98%). There was a preference for opt-in consent (53.44%) and broad support for placing conditions on sharing health information with private companies (62% to 91.99%). Wide variability was also observed in participants’ views about the extent to which the private sector could be trusted and how well they would behave if entrusted with people’s health information. In their qualitative responses, the participants noted concerns about private sector corporate interests, corruption, and profit making and expressed doubt about the Australian government’s capacity to manage data sharing safely. The percentages presented are adjusted against the Australian population. his nationally representative survey provides preliminary evidence that Australians are uncertain about sharing their health data with the private sector. Although just over half of all the respondents supported sharing health data with the private sector, there was also strong support for strict conditions on sharing data and for opt-in consent and significant concerns about how well the private sector would manage government health data. Addressing public concern about sharing government health data with the private sector will require more and better engagement to build community understanding about how agencies can collect, share, protect, and use their personal data.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 28-04-2009
DOI: 10.1002/HEP.22935
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 31-05-2023
DOI: 10.1128/JVI.00451-23
Publisher: Elsevier
Date: 2008
Publisher: Future Medicine Ltd
Date: 11-2014
DOI: 10.2217/FVL.14.83
Abstract: ABSTRACT Advances in our understanding of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) life cycle have enabled the development of numerous clinically advanced direct-acting antivirals. Indeed, the recent approval of first-generation direct-acting antivirals that target the viral NS3–4A protease and NS5B RNA-dependent RNA polymerase brings closer the possibility of universally efficacious and well-tolerated antiviral therapies for this insidious infection. However, the complexities of comorbidities, unforeseen side effects or drug–drug interactions, viral ersity, the high mutation rate of HCV RNA replication and the elegant and constantly evolving mechanisms employed by HCV to evade host and therapeutically implemented antiviral strategies remain as significant obstacles to this goal. Here, we review advances in our understanding of the HCV life cycle and associated opportunities for antiviral therapy.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-11-2016
Abstract: Intense concern about obesity in the public imagination and in political, academic and media discourses has catalysed advocacy efforts to implement regulatory measures to reduce the occurrence of obesity in Australia and elsewhere. This article explores public attitudes towards the possible implementation of regulations to address obesity by analysing emotions within popular discourses. Drawing on reader comments attached to obesity-relevant news articles published on Australian news and current affairs websites, we examine how popular anxieties about the 'obesity crisis' and vitriol directed at obese in iduals circulate alongside understandings of the appropriate role of government to legitimise regulatory reform to address obesity. Employing Ahmed's theorisation of 'affective economies' and broader literature on emotional cultures, we argue that obesity regulations achieve popular support within affective economies oriented to neoliberal and in idualist constructions of obesity. These economies preclude constructions of obesity as a structural problem in popular discourse instead positioning anti-obesity regulations as a government-endorsed vehicle for discrimination directed at obese people. Findings implicate a new set of ethical challenges for those ch ioning regulatory reform for obesity prevention.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-02-2015
DOI: 10.1111/HEX.12356
Publisher: Portland Press Ltd.
Date: 15-06-1989
DOI: 10.1042/BJ2600647
Abstract: The metabolism of 1-11C-labelled derivatives of palmitic (C16:0), arachidonic (C20:4,n-6) lignoceric (C21:0) and tetracosatetraenoic (C24:4,n-6) acids was studied in normal skin fibroblast cultures and in cultures of fibroblasts from peroxisome-deficient (Zellweger's syndrome) patients. Radiolabelled products of the fatty acids included carbon dioxide. C14-24 saturated and mono-unsaturated fatty acids formed from released acetate either by synthesis de novo or by elongation of endogenous fatty acids, fatty acids formed by 2-6-carbon elongation of added substrates, and a number of water-soluble compounds, some of which were tentatively identified as the amino acids glutamine, glutamic acid and asparagine. The labelled amino acids were found predominantly in the culture medium. Zellweger's syndrome fibroblasts showed a marked decrease in radiolabelled carbon dioxide and water-soluble-product formation from (I-14C)-labelled arachidonic, tetracosatetraenoic and lignoceric acids but not from [I-14C]palmitic acid, and the production of radiolabelled C14-18 fatty acids was also diminished. However, the elongation of in idual fatty acids was either normal or above normal. Our data support the view that the oxidation of 20:4, 24:4 and 24:0 fatty acids in cultured skin fibroblasts takes place largely in peroxisomes, and further that the acetyl-CoA released by the beta-oxidation process is available for the synthesis of fatty acids and amino acids. We speculate that the generation of C2 units used for synthesis is a major peroxisomal function and that this function is absent or greatly impaired in Zellweger's syndrome cells.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-02-2009
Abstract: There has been considerable examination and critique of traditional (academic) peer review processes in quality assessment of grant applications. At the same time, the use of traditional research processes in Indigenous research has been questioned. Many grant funding organisations have changed the composition of their peer review panels to reflect these concerns but the question remains do these reforms go far enough? In this project we asked people working in areas associated with Aboriginal health research in a number of capacities, their views on the use of peer review in assessing Indigenous research proposals. In semi-structured interviews we asked 18 in iduals associated with an Australian Indigenous research funding organisation to reflect on their experience with peer review in quality assessment of grant applications. We also invited input from a steering group drawn from a variety of organisations involved in Aboriginal research throughout Australia and directly consulted with three Aboriginal-controlled health organisations. There was consensus amongst all participants that traditional academic peer review is inappropriate for quality assessment in Indigenous research. Many expressed the view that using a competitive grant review system in Aboriginal health was counterintuitive, since good research transfer is based on effective collaboration. The consensus within the group favoured a system which built research in a collaborative manner incorporating a variety of different stakeholders in the process. In this system, one-off peer review was still seen as valuable in the form of a "critical friend" who provided advice as to how to improve the research proposal. Peer review in the traditional mould should be recognised as inappropriate in Aboriginal research. Building research projects relevant to policy and practice in Indigenous health may require a shift to a new way of selecting, funding and conducting research.
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 22-06-2023
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 12-2017
DOI: 10.1128/JVI.01455-17
Abstract: Dengue virus (DENV) is a major global pathogen that causes significant morbidity and mortality in tropical and subtropical areas worldwide. An improved understanding of the regions within the DENV genome and its encoded proteins that are required for the virus replication cycle will expedite the development of urgently required therapeutics and vaccines. We subjected an infectious DENV genome to unbiased insertional mutagenesis and used next-generation sequencing to identify sites that tolerate 15-nucleotide insertions during the virus replication cycle in hepatic cell culture. This revealed that the regions within capsid, NS1, and the 3′ untranslated region were the most tolerant of insertions. In contrast, prM- and NS2A-encoding regions were largely intolerant of insertions. Notably, the multifunctional NS1 protein readily tolerated insertions in regions within the Wing , connector , and β- ladder domains with minimal effects on viral RNA replication and infectious virus production. Using this information, we generated infectious reporter viruses, including a variant encoding the APEX2 electron microscopy tag in NS1 that uniquely enabled high-resolution imaging of its localization to the surface and interior of viral replication vesicles. In addition, we generated a tagged virus bearing an mScarlet fluorescent protein insertion in NS1 that, despite an impact on fitness, enabled live cell imaging of NS1 localization and traffic in infected cells. Overall, this genome-wide profile of DENV genome flexibility may be further dissected and exploited in reporter virus generation and antiviral strategies. IMPORTANCE Regions of genetic flexibility in viral genomes can be exploited in the generation of reporter virus tools and should arguably be avoided in antiviral drug and vaccine design. Here, we subjected the DENV genome to high-throughput insertional mutagenesis to identify regions of genetic flexibility and enable tagged reporter virus generation. In particular, the viral NS1 protein displayed remarkable tolerance of small insertions. This genetic flexibility enabled generation of several novel NS1-tagged reporter viruses, including an APEX2-tagged virus that we used in high-resolution imaging of NS1 localization in infected cells by electron microscopy. For the first time, this analysis revealed the localization of NS1 within viral replication factories known as “vesicle packets” (VPs), in addition to its acknowledged localization to the luminal surface of these VPs. Together, this genetic profile of DENV may be further refined and exploited in the identification of antiviral targets and the generation of reporter virus tools.
Publisher: Microbiology Society
Date: 08-2016
DOI: 10.1099/JGV.0.000511
Abstract: The hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA genome of 9.6 kb encodes only 10 proteins, and so is highly dependent on host hepatocyte factors to facilitate replication. We aimed to identify host factors involved in the egress of viral particles. By screening the supernatant of HCV-infected Huh7 cells using SILAC-based proteomics, we identified the transmembrane protein calsyntenin-1 as a factor specifically secreted by infected cells. Calsyntenin-1 has previously been shown to mediate transport of endosomes along microtubules in neurons, through interactions with kinesin light chain-1. Here we demonstrate for the first time, we believe, a similar role for calsyntenin-1 in Huh7 cells, mediating intracellular transport of endosomes. In HCV-infected cells we show that calsyntenin-1 contributes to the early stages of the viral replication cycle and the formation of the replication complex. Importantly, we demonstrate in our model that silencing calsyntenin-1 disrupts the viral replication cycle, confirming the reliance of HCV on this protein as a host factor. Characterizing the function of calsyntenin-1 will increase our understanding of the HCV replication cycle and pathogenesis, with potential application to other viruses sharing common pathways.
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 04-2014
DOI: 10.1128/JVI.02490-13
Abstract: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5A is essential for viral genome replication within cytoplasmic replication complexes and virus assembly at the lipid droplet (LD) surface, although its definitive functions are poorly understood. We developed approaches to investigate NS5A dynamics during a productive infection. We report here that NS5A motility and efficient HCV RNA replication require the microtubule network and the cytoplasmic motor dynein and demonstrate that both motile and relatively static NS5A-positive foci are enriched with host factors VAP-A and Rab5A. Pulse-chase imaging revealed that newly synthesized NS5A foci are small and distinct from aged foci, while further studies using a unique dual fluorescently tagged infectious HCV chimera showed a relatively stable association of NS5A foci with core-capped LDs. These results reveal new details about the dynamics and maturation of NS5A and the nature of potential sites of convergence of HCV replication and assembly pathways. IMPORTANCE Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of serious liver disease worldwide. An improved understanding of the HCV replication cycle will enable development of novel and improved antiviral strategies. Here we have developed complementary fluorescent labeling and imaging approaches to investigate the localization, traffic and interactions of the HCV NS5A protein in living, virus-producing cells. These studies reveal new details as to the traffic, composition and biogenesis of NS5A foci and the nature of their association with putative sites of virus assembly.
Publisher: Life Science Alliance, LLC
Date: 09-06-2021
Abstract: Peroxisomes are recognized as significant platforms for the activation of antiviral innate immunity where stimulation of the key adapter molecule mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS) within the RIG-I like receptor (RLR) pathway culminates in the up-regulation of hundreds of ISGs, some of which drive augmentation of multiple innate sensing pathways. However, whether ISGs can augment peroxisome-driven RLR signaling is currently unknown. Using a proteomics-based screening approach, we identified Pex19 as a binding partner of the ISG viperin. Viperin colocalized with numerous peroxisomal proteins and its interaction with Pex19 was in close association with lipid droplets, another emerging innate signaling platform. Augmentation of the RLR pathway by viperin was lost when Pex19 expression was reduced. Expression of organelle-specific MAVS demonstrated that viperin requires both mitochondria and peroxisome MAVS for optimal induction of IFN-β. These results suggest that viperin is required to enhance the antiviral cellular response with a possible role to position the peroxisome at the mitochondrial/MAM MAVS signaling synapse, furthering our understanding of the importance of multiple organelles driving the innate immune response against viral infection.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.JHEP.2009.04.025
Abstract: Co-infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) increases the risk of development and the severity of chronic liver disease. Although dominant and suppressive effects of each virus over the other have been reported in vivo, in vitro studies of HBV/HCV co-infection have been limited to analysis of the effects of over-expression of HCV proteins on HBV replication. We have re-examined HBV/HCV interactions in Huh-7 cells following co-infection with cell culture-propagated HCV (HCVcc genotype 2a) and a recombinant adenovirus vector capable of delivering a replication-competent HBV genome (AdHBV genotype A). While intracellular HCV RNA levels were significantly increased when cells were pre-infected with AdHBV, HCV replication and virion secretion were not altered by simultaneous infection with AdHBV or AdHBV superinfection of HCV-infected cells. Likewise intracellular and secreted HBV DNA levels and HBV promoter activities were either unchanged or modestly increased by HCVcc infection. Despite this, HCV E2 and HBsAg proteins colocalized extensively in co-infected cells suggesting shared stages in viral egress. These studies indicate that there is little direct interaction of HBV and HCV in co-infected hepatocytes and imply that indirect effects of host-viral interactions dictate viral dominance in HBV/HCV co-infected in iduals.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-01-2014
DOI: 10.1038/BJC.2013.800
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-1997
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 25-06-2022
Abstract: Globally, there is an urgent need for solutions that can support our aging populations to live well and reduce the associated economic, social and health burdens. Implementing smart technologies within homes and communities may assist people to live well and ‘age in place’. To date, there has been little consultation with older Australians addressing either the perceived benefits, or the potential social and ethical challenges associated with smart technology use. To address this, we conducted five World Cafés in two Australian states, aiming to capture citizen knowledge about the possibilities and challenges of smart technologies. The participants (n = 84) were aged 55 years and over, English-speaking, and living independently. Grounding our analysis in values-based social science and biomedical ethical principles, we identified the themes reflecting the participants’ understanding, resistance, and acceptance of smart technologies, and the ethical principles, including beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, privacy, confidentiality, and justice. Similar to other studies, many of the participants demonstrated cautious and conditional acceptance of smart technologies, while identifying concerns about social isolation, breaches of privacy and confidentiality, surveillance, and stigmatization. Attention to understanding and incorporating the values of older citizens will be important for the acceptance and effectiveness of smart technologies for supporting independent and full lives for older citizens.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-01-2011
DOI: 10.1057/JPHP.2010.49
Abstract: The emergence of virulent avian influenza A subtypes with potential to evolve into novel human subtypes prompted directives from the World Health Organisation recommending that countries prepare for a pandemic. In response the Australian government developed the Australian Health Management Plan for Pandemic Influenza (AHMPPI), which includes strategies to contain and/or manage a pandemic. To implement these strategies successfully, community compliance is necessary. Our qualitative study investigated, through a deliberative forum, the extent to which the antiviral drug and vaccine allocation of the AHMPPI corresponds with community views about the priority groups. We used Mary Douglas' Grid/Group analysis to analyse the results, which suggested that the AHMPPI's allocation strategy corresponds well with community views with both based on a hierarchical structure. There are some differences concerning community involvement in the decision process and information provision to the public, for which our study provides recommendations.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 28-10-2011
DOI: 10.1002/HEP.24542
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 23-04-2010
DOI: 10.1002/HEP.23695
Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Date: 05-1987
Abstract: Herniation of the spinal cord is a rare condition that causes non specific neurological deficits that are often a diagnostic challenge to clinicians. Despite several reports in the neurosurgical literature, it is only recently that the imaging appearances of this condition have come to be recognised, due mainly to the widespread adoption of spinal MRI. It is important for radiologists to recognise the telltale MRI features of this condition, as several cases have undergone initial misdiagnosis, resulting in delayed treatment We present a case with typical imaging features to familiarise radiologists with this condition, as it is likely that more cases will come to the fore, with more spinal MRIs being performed.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 04-08-2017
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-08-2018
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.185
Abstract: Australian policymakers have acknowledged that implementing obesity prevention regulations is likely to be facilitated or hindered by public opinion. Accordingly, we investigated public views about possible regulations. Cross-sectional survey of 2732 persons, designed to be representative of South Australians aged 15 years and over. Questions examined views about four obesity prevention regulations (mandatory front-of-pack nutrition labelling for packaged foods zoning restrictions to prohibit fast food outlets near schools taxes on unhealthy high fat foods and taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages). Levels of support (Likert scale) for each intervention and reasons for support/opposition were ascertained. Views about the regulations were mixed: support was highest for mandatory nutrition labelling (90%) and lowest for taxes (40%-42%). High levels of support for labelling were generally underpinned by a belief that this regulation would educate "Other" people about nutrition. Lower levels of support for zoning restrictions and taxes were associated with concerns about government overreach and the questionable effectiveness of these regulations in changing behaviours. Levels of support for each regulation, and reasons for support or opposition, differed by gender and socio-economic status. Socio-demographic differences in support appeared to reflect gendered responsibilities for food provision and concerns about the material constraints of socio-economic deprivation. Engagement with target populations may offer insights to optimise the acceptability of regulations and minimise unintended social consequences. SO WHAT?: Resistance to regulations amongst socio-economically disadvantaged target populations warrants attention from public health advocates. Failure to accommodate concerns identified may further marginalise these groups.
Publisher: American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Date: 06-12-2019
Abstract: A novel T cell–based ZIKV vaccine, encoding NS1 protein, confers protection against systemic infection.
Publisher: Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention Branch (HPCDP) Public Health Agency of Canada
Date: 2018
Abstract: nhealthy foods are widely available in public settings across Canada, contributing to diet-related chronic diseases, such as obesity. This is a concern given that public facilities often provide a significant amount of food for consumption by vulnerable groups, including children and seniors. Healthy food procurement policies, which support procuring, distributing, selling, and/or serving healthier foods, have recently emerged as a promising strategy to counter this public health issue by increasing access to healthier foods. Although numerous Canadian health and scientific organizations have recommended such policies, they have not yet been broadly implemented in Canada. o inform further policy action on healthy food procurement in a Canadian context, we: (1) conducted an evidence synthesis to assess the impact of healthy food procurement policies on health outcomes and sales, intake, and availability of healthier food, and (2) hosted a consensus conference in September 2014. The consensus conference invited experts with public health/nutrition policy research expertise, as well as health services and food services practitioner experience, to review evidence, share experiences, and develop a consensus statement/recommendations on healthy food procurement in Canada. indings from the evidence synthesis and consensus recommendations for healthy food procurement in Canada are described. Specifically, we outline recommendations for governments, publicly funded institutions, decision-makers and professionals, citizens, and researchers. mplementation of healthy food procurement policies can increase Canadians’ access to healthier foods as part of a broader vision for food policy in Canada.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 10-2013
DOI: 10.1002/HEP.26496
Abstract: Host factors play an important role in all facets of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) life cycle and one such host factor is signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). The HCV core protein has been shown to directly interact with and activate STAT3, while oxidative stress generated during HCV replication in a replicon-based model also induced STAT3 activation. However, despite these findings the precise role of STAT3 in the HCV life cycle remains unknown. We have established that STAT3 is actively phosphorylated in the presence of replicating HCV. Furthermore, expression of a constitutively active form of STAT3 leads to marked increases in HCV replication, whereas, conversely, chemical inhibition and small interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown of STAT3 leads to significant decreases in HCV RNA levels. This strongly implicates STAT3 as a proviral host factor. As STAT3 is a transcription factor, up-regulation of a distinct set of STAT3-dependent genes may create an environment that is favorable for HCV replication. However, STAT3 has recently been demonstrated to positively regulate microtubule (MT) dynamics, by way of a direct sequestration of the MT depolymerizing protein Stathmin 1 (STMN1), and we provide evidence that STAT3 may exert its effect on the HCV life cycle by way of positive regulation of MT dynamics. We have demonstrated that STAT3 plays a role in the life cycle of HCV and have clarified the role of STAT3 as a proviral host factor.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-2009
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-2016
DOI: 10.1128/MCB.00138-16
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2014.03.005
Abstract: Deliberative inclusive approaches, such as citizen juries, have been used to engage citizens on a range of issues in health care and public health. Researchers engaging with the public to inform policy and practice have adapted the citizen jury method in a variety of ways. The nature and impact of these adaptations has not been evaluated. We systematically searched Medline (PubMED), CINAHL and Scopus databases to identify deliberative inclusive methods, particularly citizens' juries and their adaptations, deployed in health research. Identified studies were evaluated focussing on principles associated with deliberative democracy: inclusivity, deliberation and active citizenship. We examined overall process, recruitment, evidence presentation, documentation and outputs in empirical studies, and the relationship of these elements to theoretical explications of deliberative inclusive methods. The search yielded 37 papers describing 66 citizens' juries. The review demonstrated that the citizens' jury model has been extensively adapted. Inclusivity has been operationalised with s ling strategies that aim to recruit representative juries, although these efforts have produced mixed results. Deliberation has been supported through use of steering committees and facilitators to promote fair interaction between jurors. Many juries were shorter duration than originally recommended, limiting opportunity for constructive dialogue. With respect to citizenship, few juries' rulings were considered by decision-making bodies thereby limiting transfer into policy and practice. Constraints in public policy process may preclude use of the 'ideal' citizens' jury with potential loss of an effective method for informed community engagement. Adapted citizens' jury models provide an alternative: however, this review demonstrates that special attention should be paid to recruitment, independent oversight, jury duration and moderation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-1996
DOI: 10.1111/J.1749-6632.1996.TB18696.X
Abstract: The change in the characteristics of the gut microbiota is linked to gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, whether and how the gut microbiota-derived metabolites change in GDM is uncertain. Here, we aimed to determine associations between the gut microbiota-derived metabolites and GDM. Using targeted metabolomics approaches, 7 types of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), 38 types of bile acids (BAs), and 5 types of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), and its derivatives of serum s les were obtained from pregnant women with GDM (n = 24), and healthy pregnant controls (HC, n = 28) were detected to identify the metabolic signature of GDM to investigate the potential biomarkers. Moreover, we assessed the associations between gut microbiota-derived metabolites and clinical parameters. In our study, the gut microbiota-derived metabolites signatures were significantly different between GDM and HC. Quantitative results showed the levels of isobutyric acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, caproic acid, GUDCA, THDCA + TUDCA, and LCA-3S were significantly higher in GDM, but the level of TMAO and its derivatives did not change significantly. Some altered gut microbiota-derived metabolites were significantly correlated with glucose and lipid levels. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of generalized linear models showed that gut microbiota-derived metabolites may be potential biomarkers of GDM. This study highlights gut microbiota-derived metabolites alterations in GDM and correlation of the clinical indicators, which provides a new direction for future studies aiming to novel serum biomarker for early detection or target of drug therapy of GDM.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 1985
DOI: 10.1016/S0378-4347(00)84596-X
Abstract: A new method for the extraction of bile acids from human plasma using acetonitrile precipitation of plasma protein and subsequent use of Bond-Elut C18 cartridges is described. After extraction the bile acids can be separated into three fractions: unconjugated, glycine-, and taurine-conjugated, using Sep-Pak SIL cartridges at 4 degrees C, eluting with ethanol--chloroform--water--glacial acetic acid mixtures. These extraction and fractionation procedures were evaluated in terms of recovery, reproducibility and resolution between the fractions. All these parameters were found to be satisfactory. Although the reproducibility of fractionation on Sep-Pak SIL cartridges was found to vary between batches, this did not give rise to significant difficulties. Plasmas from normals and patients with hepatobiliary disease were analysed by capillary gas-liquid chromatography after extraction and fractionation using the procedure described.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.BBRC.2008.02.164
Abstract: Fatty acid translocase (FAT/CD36) is one of several proteins implicated in receptor-mediated uptake of long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs). We have tested whether levels of FAT/CD36 correlate with cellular oleic acid import, using a Tet-Off inducible transfected CHO cell line. Consistent with our previous findings, FAT/CD36 was enriched in lipid raft-derived detergent-resistant membranes (DRMs) that also contained caveolin-1, the marker protein of caveolae. Furthermore in transfected cells, plasma membrane FAT/CD36 co-localized extensively with the lipid raft-enriched ganglioside GM1, and partially with a caveolin-1-EGFP fusion protein. Nevertheless, even at high levels of expression, FAT/CD36 did not affect uptake of oleic acid. We propose that the ability of FAT/CD36 to mediate enhanced uptake of LCFAs is dependent on co-expression of other proteins or factors that are lacking in CHO cells.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.ANTIVIRAL.2007.11.008
Abstract: Viruses have evolved mechanisms to inhibit the innate immune response to infection. The aim of this study was to develop an efficient screening method to identify viral proteins and their ability to block Jak-Stat signaling using hepatitis C virus (HCV) as an ex le. The 2FTGH cell assay system was used in combination with transient transfection of HCV proteins in this study. Using 1000U/ml IFN and 30mM 6-TG to treat 2FTGH cells, it was established that transient protein expression in this cell system yielded 39% and 0% cell survival for the positive (HPV E7) and negative controls (GFP expression) respectively. Transient expression of HCV Core-p7 resulted in 22% cell survival, consistent with previous reports, while expression of the HCV serine protease NS3/4a resulted in 54% cell survival. NS3/4a was subsequently shown to inhibit phosphorylation of Stat-1 at the serine residue 727. the 2FTGH cell assay system can be adapted for transient screening to examine the ability of viral proteins or other potential inhibitors to block the Jak-Stat signaling pathway. We show that HCV NS3/4a is able to block this pathway at the stage of Stat-1 serine 727 phosphorylation.
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 23-11-2021
DOI: 10.1128/JVI.00596-21
Abstract: Cellular factors are critical in all facets of viral lifecycles, where overlapping interactions between the virus and host can be exploited as possible avenues for the development of antiviral therapeutics. Using a genome-wide CRISPR knockout screening approach to identify novel cellular factors important for flavivirus replication we identified RACK1 as a pro-viral host factor for both mosquito- and tick-borne flaviviruses in addition to SARS-CoV-2.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-05-2008
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2017.03.003
Abstract: Citizens'/community juries [CJs] engage members of the public in policy decision-making processes. CJs can be employed to develop policy responses to health problems that require the consideration of both community values and scientific evidence. Based on the principles of deliberative democracy, recent reviews indicate that findings from CJs have successfully been used to influence health policy decision-making. Despite this evidence of success, there appears to be a gap between the goals of health researchers who organize CJs and the needs of policy actors and decision makers. Drawing on our experiences working with CJs and recent research on CJ methods, we describe a synopsis of the current state of the art organized around four key questions, and informed by insights from deliberative theory and critical policy studies. Our intention is to stimulate further discussion as to the types of health policy questions that can be usefully addressed through public deliberation, and provide guidance on the methodological and political dimensions that need to be considered in deciding whether a CJ is an appropriate approach for informing a policy decision-making process.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-04-2013
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 11-03-2019
DOI: 10.1128/AAC.00289-20
Abstract: Flaviviruses such as Zika virus (ZIKV), dengue virus (DENV), and West Nile virus (WNV) are major global pathogens for which safe and effective antiviral therapies are not currently available. To identify antiviral small molecules with well-characterized safety and bioavailability profiles, we screened a library of 2,907 approved drugs and pharmacologically active compounds for inhibitors of ZIKV infection using a high-throughput cell-based immunofluorescence assay. Interestingly, estrogen receptor modulators raloxifene hydrochloride and quinestrol were among 15 compounds that significantly inhibited ZIKV infection in repeat screens.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JVAL.2015.05.012
Abstract: Deliberative forums can be useful tools in policy decision making for balancing citizen voice and community values against dominant interests. To describe the use of a deliberative forum to explore community perspectives on a complex health problem-disinvestment. A deliberative forum of citizens was convened in Adelaide, South Australia, to develop criteria to support disinvestment from public funding of ineffective pathology tests. The case study of potential disinvestment from vitamin B12/folate pathology testing was used to shape the debate. The forum was informed by a systematic review of B12/folate pathology test effectiveness and expert testimony. The citizens identified seven criteria: cost of the test, potential impact on in idual health/capacity to benefit, potential cost to society, public good, alternatives to testing, severity of the condition, and accuracy of the test. The participants not only saw these criteria as an interdependent network but also questioned "the authority" of policymakers to make these decisions. Coherence between the criteria devised by the forum and those described by an expert group was considerable, the major differences being that the citizens did not consider equity issues and the experts neglected the "cost" of social and emotional impact of disinvestment on users and the society.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 07-10-2010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 1989
DOI: 10.1016/S0378-4347(00)82607-9
Abstract: The first description of successful capillary gas chromatography of intact glycine-conjugated bile acid derivatives used an automatic solid injection system and required very high carrier gas flow-rates (approximately 20 ml/min) to obtain satisfactory peak shape. Peak heights of unconjugated bile acid derivatives using this injection system and the low flow-rates (1-2 ml/min) usually used for such gas chromatographic analyses were very susceptible to small changes in flow-rate. This system has been re-examined in an attempt to explain this anomalous behaviour. An alternative injection system, the all-glass dropping needle, was also investigated. No explanation for the very high carrier gas flow-rates required when using the automatic solid injection system was found. The dropping needle injection system, however, produced excellent separation of bile acids and their glycine conjugates as dimethylethylsilyl ethers-methyl esters on non-polar wall-coated capillary columns using normal carrier gas flow-rates of 1-2 ml/min. It is clear that the automatic solid injection system originally used has some problem associated with it which can only be overcome, in the case of bile acids and their glycine conjugates, by increasing the carrier gas flow-rate to very high levels.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-06-2017
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-017-04138-1
Abstract: Zika virus (ZIKV) infection has emerged as a global health threat and infection of pregnant women causes intrauterine growth restriction, spontaneous abortion and microcephaly in newborns. Here we show using biologically relevant cells of neural and placental origin that following ZIKV infection, there is attenuation of the cellular innate response characterised by reduced expression of IFN-β and associated interferon stimulated genes (ISGs). One such ISG is viperin that has well documented antiviral activity against a wide range of viruses. Expression of viperin in cultured cells resulted in significant impairment of ZIKV replication, while MEFs derived from CRISPR/Cas9 derived viperin −/− mice replicated ZIKV to higher titers compared to their WT counterparts. These results suggest that ZIKV can attenuate ISG expression to avoid the cellular antiviral innate response, thus allowing the virus to replicate unchecked. Moreover, we have identified that the ISG viperin has significant anti-ZIKV activity. Further understanding of how ZIKV perturbs the ISG response and the molecular mechanisms utilised by viperin to suppress ZIKV replication will aid in our understanding of ZIKV biology, pathogenesis and possible design of novel antiviral strategies.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-02-2023
DOI: 10.1111/HEX.13703
Abstract: Internationally, cultural factors are associated with vaccine uptake and completion in ethnic minority communities. Whilst Australia has achieved high human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, little is known about how culture or ethnicity influences HPV vaccination engagement. To address these gaps, we partnered with our Local Health District to explore how one culturally and linguistically erse (CALD) community engages with school and HPV vaccination. We adapted a participatory research method (the World Café) to engage one local CALD community—the Macedonian community (Our bi‐cultural researcher and participants preferred the term ‘Macedonia’ rather than The Republic of North Macedonia as outlined in the 2018 Prespa agreement) in New South Wales (Australia)—to discuss HPV and school vaccination. Our qualitative analysis combined deductive codes taken from the Tailoring Immunization Programme framework, inductive codes guided by narrative inquiry (temporality, sociality and place) and previously known vaccination ‘trust’ frameworks. In late 2019, 31 local Macedonian community members were purposely recruited for two World Cafés ( n = 15 mothers/grandmothers and n = 16 young adults). Our themes reveal a community narrative grounded in historical vaccine experiences, family views on vaccination and a general trust in schools. Participants collectively discussed how ‘increasing knowledge’ and ‘tailoring health communications’ could strengthen community vaccine decision‐making. This study demonstrates how research partnerships and participatory methods can be applied in CALD community settings to research engagement with school and HPV vaccination. Our World Café dialogues highlight a positive narrative about vaccines, where community vaccination behaviours were built on multilayer trust relationships despite low vaccine knowledge. Our findings further knowledge around ‘public trust’ in school vaccination, highlighting the importance of existing (or missing) trust relationships when tailoring vaccine communication to local CALD communities. Participants who took part in the World Cafes were all local Macedonian community parents or young adults who have been or will be exposed to the health services offered by school‐based HPV vaccination. Thus, all the data collected came from their personal experiences with the school vaccination programme, or how they expect to participate in the programme. To ensure our study design was culturally appropriate and tailored to the Macedonian community, we engaged with the relevant local health stakeholders (the bi‐cultural Multicultural Health Officer and Multicultural Health Service Manager Programme Director) to adapt and refine the World Café method for this context and setting. Our local health stakeholders also reviewed our preliminary findings, assisted with data interpretation and participated in manuscript editing.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 10-2021
DOI: 10.2196/24200
Abstract: The use of government health data for secondary purposes, such as monitoring the quality of hospital services, researching the health needs of populations, and testing how well new treatments work, is increasing. This increase in the secondary uses of health data has led to increased interest in what the public thinks about data sharing, in particular, the possibilities of sharing with the private sector for research and development. Although international evidence demonstrates broad public support for the secondary use of health data, this support does not extend to sharing health data with the private sector. If governments intend to share health data with the private sector, knowing what the public thinks will be important. This paper reports a national survey to explore public attitudes in Australia toward sharing health data with private companies for research on and development of therapeutic drugs and medical devices. This study aims to explore public attitudes in Australia toward sharing government health data with the private sector. A web-based survey tool was developed to assess attitudes about sharing government health data with the private sector. A market research company was employed to administer the web-based survey in June 2019. The survey was completed by 2537 in iduals residing in Australia. Between 51.8% and 57.98% of all participants were willing to share their data, with slightly fewer in favor of sharing to improve health services (51.99%) and a slightly higher proportion in favor of sharing for research and development (57.98%). There was a preference for opt-in consent (53.44%) and broad support for placing conditions on sharing health information with private companies (62% to 91.99%). Wide variability was also observed in participants’ views about the extent to which the private sector could be trusted and how well they would behave if entrusted with people’s health information. In their qualitative responses, the participants noted concerns about private sector corporate interests, corruption, and profit making and expressed doubt about the Australian government’s capacity to manage data sharing safely. The percentages presented are adjusted against the Australian population. This nationally representative survey provides preliminary evidence that Australians are uncertain about sharing their health data with the private sector. Although just over half of all the respondents supported sharing health data with the private sector, there was also strong support for strict conditions on sharing data and for opt-in consent and significant concerns about how well the private sector would manage government health data. Addressing public concern about sharing government health data with the private sector will require more and better engagement to build community understanding about how agencies can collect, share, protect, and use their personal data.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 10-2011
DOI: 10.1017/S026646231100033X
Abstract: Objectives: The aim of this study, in the context of disinvestment related health technology assessment, is to examine whether analysis of Web 2.0—commercial media output, blogs, and discussion forums—can provide an understanding of media framing, community perspectives, and the sociopolitical aspects of an entrenched technology. Methods : Thematic analysis of relevant data from fifty-nine media articles, thirty-nine discussion forums, thirteen blogs, and three Facebook pages relating to our case study: public funding for assisted reproductive technology services. Mainstream media and community-based social media responses were compared. Results: Media responses were narrow, primarily describing emotive in idual narratives or the political nexus of interests. Community (including patient) responses were broader including discussion of opportunity cost and vested interests but mostly reflected the polar ends of the debate, erging strongly for or against disinvestment from public funding. Conclusion: Web2.0 and media analysis offers an inexpensive method to capture media portrayal, ergent community responses both to that portrayal and independent of it, and insight into the sociopolitical aspects of an entrenched technology undergoing disinvestment debate.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 05-08-2020
DOI: 10.1017/S0266462320000537
Abstract: Worldwide, governments employ health technology assessment (HTA) in healthcare funding decision making. Requests to include public perspectives in this are increasing, with the idea being that the public can identify social values to guide policy development, increasing the transparency and accountability of government decision making. To understand the perspectives of the Canadian public on the rationale and design of public involvement in HTA. A demographically representative s le of residents of a Canadian province was selected to take part in two sets of two focus groups (sixteen people for the first set and twenty for the second set). Participants were suspicious of the interests driving various stakeholders involved in HTA. They saw the public as uniquely impartial though also lacking knowledge about health technologies. Participants were also suspicious of personal biases and commended mechanisms to reduce their impact. Participants suggested various involvement methods, such as focus groups, citizens' juries and surveys, noting advantages and disadvantages belonging to each and commending a combination. We identified a lack of public understanding of how decisions are made and distrust concerning whose interests and values are being considered. Public involvement was seen as a way of providing information to the public and ascertaining their views and values. Participants suggested that public involvement should employ a mixed-methods strategy to support informed debate and participation of a large number of people.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-04-2018
DOI: 10.1111/HEX.12690
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 15-11-2019
DOI: 10.1128/JVI.00810-19
Abstract: A vaccine is still urgently needed to overcome the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic. It is estimated that 1.75 million new HCV infections occur each year, many of which will go undiagnosed and untreated. Untreated HCV can lead to continued spread of the disease, progressive liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and eventually, end-stage liver disease and/or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Previously, our 1a E1/E2 glycoprotein vaccine was shown to elicit broadly cross-neutralizing antibodies however, there remains variation in the effectiveness of these antibodies against different HCV genotypes. In this study, we investigated determinants of differential neutralization sensitivity between two highly related genotype 2a isolates, J6 and JFH-1. Our data indicate that the HVR1 region determines neutralization sensitivity to vaccine antisera through modulation of sensitivity to antibodies and interactions with SR-B1. Our results provide additional insight into optimizing a broadly neutralizing HCV vaccine.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-1981
DOI: 10.1016/0009-8981(81)90425-3
Abstract: A simple procedure for the esterification of steroid carboxylic acid groups using an acetyl chloride/alcohol reagent has been carefully evaluated. The ease with which these esters can be formed using this reagent depends on the acid and the ester required. C24 bile acids form methyl esters using acetyl chloride/methanol (1:20, v/v) almost instantaneously at 50 degrees C, whereas the C20 aetienic acid studied requires 2 h at 50 degrees C. The formation of isopropyl esters of 5 beta-cholanic acid takes longer (4 h at 50 degrees C) than the formation of n-propyl esters (1 h at 50 degrees C). The identity of various esters fo cholanic acids formed using this reagent have been checked by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and various other procedures used for the methylation of fatty acids have been examined to establish whether they can be used for the quantitative esterification of bile acids.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-05-2021
DOI: 10.1111/HEX.13268
Abstract: There is good evidence of both community support for sharing public sector administrative health data in the public interest and concern about data security, misuse and loss of control over health information, particularly if private sector organizations are the data recipients. To date, there is little research describing the perspectives of informed community members on private sector use of public health data and, particularly, on the conditions under which that use might be justified. Two citizens' juries were held in February 2020 in two locations close to Sydney, Australia. Jurors considered the charge: ‘Under what circumstances is it permissible for governments to share health data with private industry for research and development?’ All jurors, bar one, in principle supported sharing government administrative health data with private industry for research and development. The support was conditional and the juries' recommendations specifying these conditions related closely to the concerns they identified in deliberation. The outcomes of the deliberative processes suggest that informed Australian citizens are willing to accept sharing their administrative health data, including with private industry, providing the intended purpose is clearly of public benefit, sharing occurs responsibly in a framework of accountability, and the data are securely held. The design of the jury was guided by an Advisory Group including representatives from a health consumer organization. The jurors themselves were selected to be descriptively representative of their communities and with independent facilitation wrote the recommendations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2016.02.028
Abstract: The potential for regulatory measures to address escalating rates of obesity is widely acknowledged in public health circles. Many advocates support regulations for their potential to reduce health inequalities, in light of the well-documented social gradient in obesity. This paper examines how different social groups understand the role of regulations and other public health interventions in addressing obesity. Drawing upon focus group data from a metropolitan city in southern Australia, we argue that implementing obesity regulations without attention to the ways in which disadvantaged communities problematise obesity may lead to further stigmatisation of this key target population. Tuana's work on the politics of ignorance, and broader literature on classed asymmetries of power, provides a theoretical framework to demonstrate how middle class understandings of obesity align with dominant 'obesity epidemic' discourses. These position obese people as lacking knowledge underpinning support for food labelling and mandatory nutrition education for welfare recipients as well as food taxes. In contrast, disadvantaged groups emphasised the potential for a different set of interventions to improve material circumstances that constrain their ability to act upon existing health promotion messages, while also describing priorities of everyday living that are not oriented to improving health status. Findings demonstrate how ignorance is produced as an explanation for obesity, widely replicated in political settings and mainstream public health agendas. This politics of ignorance and its logical reparation serve to reproduce power relations in which particular groups are constructed as lacking capacity to act on knowledge, whilst maintaining others in privileged positions of knowing.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2007
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-2015
DOI: 10.3851/IMP2850
Abstract: Genotype (gt)6 HCV is common amongst HCV-positive populations of the Asia–Pacific region but cell culture models for this gt have only recently been developed. Boceprevir (SCH503034) is a clinically available inhibitor of the HCV NS3 protein. We investigated the efficacy of boceprevir for inhibiting replication of a chimeric gt1b replicon encoding a gt6a NS3 protease and defined the development of mutations in the protease when boceprevir treatment was applied. We constructed a chimeric gt1b subgenomic replicon encoding a gt6 NS3 protease (NS3p) sequence (gt6NS3p_gt1b). The boceprevir EC 50 value against replication of this replicon was determined using quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR. Next-generation sequencing was used to identify nucleotide changes associated with boceprevir resistance. The replication capacities of chimeric replicons containing mutations associated with boceprevir resistance were determined by colony formation efficiency assays. The boceprevir EC 50 value for the gt6NS3p_gt1b replicon was 535 ±79 nM. Boceprevir-resistant gt6NS3p_gt1b replicon cell lines could be selected and they demonstrated drug-associated amino acid changes that have previously been reported in other HCV gts. Interestingly, no mutations were observed at A156, a position defined for boceprevir resistance in gt1 NS3p, while mutation at N122, which is rarely reported in boceprevir-resistant gt1 proteases, was frequently observed. Re-introduction of these mutations into the chimeric replicon altered their replication capacity, ranging from complete abolishment of replication (A156T) to increasing replication capacity (V36A, N122S). This report provides the first characterization of gt6 HCV resistance to boceprevir. A chimeric HCV replicon encoding gt6 NS3 protease is sensitive to boceprevir and develops drug-resistant mutations at amino acid sites previously reported for other gts. Mutation at N122 also appears to be associated with boceprevir resistance in the gt6 NS3 protease.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-10-2012
Abstract: Governments and other payers are yet to determine optimal processes by which to review the safety, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of technologies and procedures that are in active use within health systems, and rescind funding (partially or fully) from those that display poor profiles against these parameters. To further progress a disinvestment agenda, a model is required to support payers in implementing disinvestment in a transparent manner that may withstand challenge from vested interests and concerned citizens. Combining approaches from health technology assessment and deliberative democratic theory, this project seeks to determine if and how wide stakeholder engagement can contribute to improved decision-making processes, wherein the views of both vested and non-vested stakeholders are seen to contribute to informing policy implementation within a disinvestment context. Systematic reviews pertaining to illustrative case studies were developed and formed the evidence base for discussion. Review findings were presented at a series of deliberative, evidence-informed stakeholder engagements, including partisan (clinicians and consumers) and non-partisan (representative community members) stakeholders. Participants were actively facilitated towards identifying shared and dissenting perspectives regarding public funding policy for each of the case studies and developing their own funding models in response to the evidence presented. Policy advisors will subsequently be invited to evaluate disinvestment options based on the scientific and colloquial evidence presented to them, and to explore the value of this information to their decision-making processes with reference to disinvestment. Analysis of the varied outputs of the deliberative engagements will contribute to the methodological development around how to best integrate scientific and colloquial evidence for consideration by policy advisors. It may contribute to the legitimization of broad and transparent stakeholder engagement in this context. It is anticipated that decision making will benefit from the knowledge delivered through informed deliberation with engaged stakeholders, and this will be explored through interviews with key decision makers.
Publisher: Portland Press Ltd.
Date: 08-1990
DOI: 10.1042/BJ2690671
Abstract: The metabolism of [1-14C]lignoceric acid (C24:0) and [1-14C]tetracosatetraenoic acid (C24:4, n-6) was studied in normal skin fibroblast cultures and in cultures from patients with defects in peroxisomal β-oxidation (but normal peroxisomal numbers). Cells from X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) patients with a presumed defect in a peroxisomal acyl-CoA synthetase, specific for fatty acids of carbon chain lengths greater than 22 (very-long-chain fatty acids VLCFA), showed a relatively normal production of radiolabelled CO2 and water-soluble metabolites from [1-14C]C24:0. However, the products of synthesis from acetate de novo (released by β-oxidation), i.e. C16 and C18 fatty acids, were decreased, and carbon chain elongation of the fatty acid was increased. In contrast, cell lines from two patients with an unidentified lesion in peroxisomal β-oxidation (peroxisomal disease, PD) showed a marked deficiency in CO2 and water-soluble metabolite production, a decreased synthesis of C16 and C18 fatty acids and an increase in carbon chain elongation. The relatively normal β-oxidation activity of ALD cells appears to be related to low uptake of substrate, as a defect in β-oxidation is apparent when measurements are performed on cell suspensions under high uptake conditions. Oxidation of [1-14C]C24:4 was relatively normal in ALD cells and in the cells from one PD patient but abnormal in those from the other. Our data suggest that, despite the deficiency in VLCFA CoA synthetase, ALD cells retain a near normal ability to oxidize both saturated and polyunsaturated VLCFA under some culture conditions. However, acetate released by β-oxidation of the saturated VLCFA and, to a much lesser degree, the polyunsaturated VLCFA, appears to be used preferentially for the production of CO2 and water-soluble products, and acetate availability for fatty acid synthesis in other subcellular compartments is markedly decreased. It is likely that the increased carbon chain elongation of the saturated VLCFA which is also observed reflects the increased availability of substrate (C24:0) and/or an increase in microsomal elongation activity in ALD cells.
Publisher: Springer Singapore
Date: 2016
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 21-02-2017
DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2014.991816
Abstract: Evidence-based profiling of obesity and overweight in Indigenous Australian children has been poor. This study systematically reviewed evidence of the prevalence and patterns of obesity/overweight, with respect to gender, age, remoteness, and birth weight, in Indigenous Australian children, 0-18 years (PROSPERO CRD42014007626). Study quality and risk of bias were assessed. Twenty-five publications (21 studies) met inclusion criteria, with large variations in prevalence for obesity or overweight (11 to 54%) reported. A high degree of heterogeneity in study design was observed, few studies (6/21) were representative of the target population, and few appropriately recruited Indigenous children (8/21). Variability in study design, conduct, and small s le sizes mean that it is not possible to derive a single estimate for prevalence although two high-quality studies indicate at least one in four Indigenous Australian children are overweight or obese. Four of six studies reporting on gender, found overweight/obesity higher in girls and eight studies reporting on overweight/obesity by age suggest prevalence increases with age with one high quality large national study reporting total overweight/obesity as 22.4% of children aged 2-4 years, 27.5% of those aged 5-9, 38.5% aged 10-14, and 36.3% aged 15-17. Three of four studies, reporting obesity/overweight by region, found lower rates for children living in more remote areas than urban areas.
Publisher: American Society for Microbiology
Date: 27-06-2023
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-04-2013
DOI: 10.1111/IRV.12103
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.VIROL.2016.02.016
Abstract: The spatiotemporal dynamics of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) RNA localisation are poorly understood. To address this we engineered HCV genomes harbouring MS2 bacteriophage RNA stem-loops within the 3'-untranslated region to allow tracking of HCV RNA via specific interaction with a MS2-Coat-mCherry fusion protein. Despite the impact of these insertions on viral fitness, live imaging revealed that replication of tagged-HCV genomes induced specific redistribution of the mCherry-tagged-MS2-Coat protein to motile and static foci. Further analysis showed that HCV RNA was associated with NS5A in both static and motile structures while a subset of motile NS5A structures was devoid of HCV RNA. Further investigation of viral RNA traffic with respect to lipid droplets (LDs) revealed HCV RNA-positive structures in close association with LDs. These studies provide new insights into the dynamics of HCV RNA traffic with NS5A and LDs and provide a platform for future investigations of HCV replication and assembly.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-1987
Abstract: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small ∼22nt single stranded RNAs that negatively regulate protein expression by binding to partially complementary sequences in the 3' untranslated region (3' UTRs) of target gene messenger RNAs (mRNA). Recently, mutations have been identified in both miRNAs and target genes that disrupt regulatory relationships, contribute to oncogenesis and serve as biomarkers for cancer risk. KIT, an established oncogene with a multifaceted role in melanogenesis and melanoma pathogenesis, has recently been shown to be upregulated in some melanomas, and is also a target of the miRNA miR-221. Here, we describe a genetic variant in the 3' UTR of the KIT oncogene that correlates with a greater than fourfold increased risk of acral melanoma. This KIT variant results in a mismatch in the seed region of a miR-221 complementary site and reporter data suggests that this mismatch can result in increased expression of the KIT oncogene. Consistent with the hypothesis that this is a functional variant, KIT mRNA and protein levels are both increased in the majority of s les harboring the KIT variant. This work identifies a novel genetic marker for increased heritable risk of melanoma.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 10-03-2020
DOI: 10.1017/S0266462320000094
Abstract: The terminology used to describe community participation in Health Technology Assessment (HTA) is contested and frequently confusing. The terms patients, consumers, public, lay members, customers, users, citizens, and others have been variously used, sometimes interchangeably. Clarity in the use of terms and goals for including the different groups is needed to mitigate existing inconsistencies in the application of patient and public involvement (PPI) across HTA processes around the world. We drew from a range of literature sources in order to conceptualize (i) an operational definition for the “public” and other stakeholders in the context of HTA and (ii) possible goals for their involvement. Draft definitions were tested and refined in an iterative consensus-building process with stakeholders from around the world. The goals, terminology, interests, and roles for PPI in HTA processes were clarified. The research provides rationales for why the role of the public should be distinguished from that of patients, their families, and caregivers. A definition for the public in the context of HTA was developed: A community member who holds the public interest and has no commercial, personal, or professional interest in the HTA process There are two distinct aspects to the interests held by the public which should be explicitly included in the HTA process: the first lies in ensuring democratic accountability and the second in recognising the importance of including public values in decision making.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-1996
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 19-09-2016
DOI: 10.1108/JHOM-08-2015-0119
Abstract: Public engagement in health technology assessment (HTA) is increasingly considered crucial for good decision making. Determining the “right” type of engagement activity is key in achieving the appropriate consideration of public values. Little is known about the factors that determine how HTA organizations (HTAOs) decide on their method of public engagement, and there are a number of possible factors that might shape these decisions. The purpose of this paper is to understand the potential drivers of public engagement from an organizational perspective. The published HTA literature is reviewed alongside existing frameworks of public engagement in order to elucidate key factors influencing the choice of public engagement process undertaken by HTAOs. A conceptual framework is then developed to illustrate the factors identified from the literature that appear to influence public engagement choice. Determining the type of public engagement undertaken in HTA is based on multiple factors, some of which are not always explicitly acknowledged. These factors included the: perceived complexity of the policy-making issue, perceived impact of the decision, transparency and opportunities for public involvement in governance, as well as time and resource constraints. The influences of these factors vary depending on the context, indicating that a one size fits all approach to public engagement may not be effective. Awareness of the various factors that might influence the type of public engagement undertaken would enable decision makers to reflect on their choices and be more accountable and transparent about their choice of engagement process in eliciting public values and preferences in a HTAO.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 28-09-2011
DOI: 10.1002/HEP.24586
Publisher: American Educational Research Association (AERA)
Date: 23-09-2020
Abstract: While universities routinely use student data to monitor and predict student performance, there has been limited engagement with student and staff views, social and ethical issues, policy development, and ethical guidance. We reviewed peer-reviewed and grey-literature articles of 2007 to 2018 describing the perspectives of staff and students in tertiary education on the use of student-generated data in data analytics, including learning analytics. We used an ethics framework to categorize the findings. There was considerable variation but generally low awareness and understanding amongst students and staff about the nature and extent of data collection, data analytics, and use of predictive analytics. Staff and students identified potential benefits but also expressed concerns about misinterpretation of data, constant surveillance, poor transparency, inadequate support, and potential to impede active learning. This review supports the contention that consideration of ethical issues has failed to keep pace with the development of predictive analytics in the tertiary sector.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 14-09-2020
Abstract: Zika Virus (ZIKV) and Dengue Virus (DENV) are related viruses of the Flavivirus genus that cause significant disease in humans. Existing control measures have been ineffective at curbing the increasing global incidence of infection for both viruses and they are therefore prime targets for new vaccination strategies. Type-I interferon (IFN) responses are important in clearing viral infection and for generating efficient adaptive immune responses towards infection and vaccination. However, ZIKV and DENV have evolved multiple molecular mechanisms to evade type-I IFN production. This review covers the molecular interactions, from detection to evasion, of these viruses with the type-I IFN response. Additionally, we discuss how this knowledge can be exploited to improve the design of new vaccine strategies.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-10-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1753-6405.2007.00090.X
Abstract: Investigator-driven research and the use of peer review are contentious in community-based research and are particularly problematic in Indigenous research. In this project, we conducted a qualitative study among stakeholders in an Australian Aboriginal majority-controlled research-funding organisation to examine the research funding process. A steering group guided the project and contributed to the research findings. In-depth interviews (n=18) with stakeholders in the Cooperative Research Centre for Aboriginal Health were conducted to canvass views on the research funding process and options for alternate processes. A discussion document, supported by an extensive literature review, was provided prior to interview. This research was an iterative process where the discussion document and interview schedule were revised as the research findings informed the project. Participants overwhelmingly endorsed a move to a more collaborative research culture, although the form the culture might take varied. Suggested elements included involvement of grant funding bodies as brokers in building collaborative networks and the substitution of named 'critical friends' for blinded peer review. Barriers to changing the research culture to a more collaborative model were described. A collaborative structure with targeted project development would permit redistribution of the time and effort (previously expended on peer review) into research development and would increase community participation in decision-making in the research funding process.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.AJIC.2011.03.015
Abstract: This study compared community response prior to and during the H1N1 2009 influenza pandemic using a cross-sectional phone survey of rural and metropolitan South Australia, conducted in 2007 and 2009. Awareness of pandemic influenza was significantly higher and anxiety lower in 2009 than in 2007. Reported seasonal influenza vaccine uptake increased from 51.7% in 2007 to 61.4% in 2009, but there was more interest in receiving pandemic vaccine in 2007 (87.5%) than in 2009 (57%).
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2015.04.021
Abstract: We collected and analysed views of key stakeholders on the processes used to involve patient organisations in health care funding decision making in Australia. We conducted 12 semi-structured interviews with patient organisation representatives and members of Advisory Committees that provide advice to the Australian Department of Health and employ Health Technology Assessment (HTA) as an evaluation framework. Using two theoretical frameworks, we analysed structural and contextual elements pertaining to the involvement processes. The findings reported in this article relate to interviewees' perspectives on contextual elements, analysed using a Foucauldian lens. These elements include: the perspectives of marginalised voices the ersity of views on what ought to be considered valid evidence in a HTA setting and the relationships between stakeholders, along with how these relationships impact on involvement processes and the outcomes of those processes. The findings demonstrate that the involvement processes currently used are deemed inadequate by both patient organisation representatives and Advisory Committee members, but for different reasons connected to how different stakeholders conceptualise evidence. Advisory Committee members viewed evidence as encompassing clinical outcomes and patient preferences, whereas patient organisation representatives tended to view evidence as encompassing aspects not directly related to a disease entity, such as the social and emotional aspects of patients' experiences in living with illness. Patient organisation representatives reported interacting with other stakeholders (especially industry) to increase the influence of their conception of evidence on decision making. The use of this strategy by interviewees illustrates how power struggles occur in government decision-making processes which involve both medical expertise and patients' accounts. Such struggles, and the power differentials they reflect, need to be considered by those responsible for designing and implementing meaningful public- and patient-involvement processes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2008
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2009
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 28-05-2021
DOI: 10.3390/V13061020
Abstract: Several recently developed high-throughput techniques have changed the field of molecular virology. For ex le, proteomics studies reveal complete interactomes of a viral protein, genome-wide CRISPR knockout and activation screens probe the importance of every single human gene in aiding or fighting a virus, and ChIP-seq experiments reveal genome-wide epigenetic changes in response to infection. Deep mutational scanning is a relatively novel form of protein science which allows the in-depth functional analysis of every nucleotide within a viral gene or genome, revealing regions of importance, flexibility, and mutational potential. In this review, we discuss the application of this technique to RNA viruses including members of the Flaviviridae family, Influenza A Virus and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2. We also briefly discuss the reverse genetics systems which allow for analysis of viral replication cycles, next-generation sequencing technologies and the bioinformatics tools that facilitate this research.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-02-2014
DOI: 10.4161/HV.27893
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPOL.2017.03.001
Abstract: Childhood obesity is a significant challenge for public health internationally. Regulatory and fiscal measures propagated by governments offer a potentially effective response to this issue. Fearing public criticism, governments are often reluctant to use such measures. In this study we asked a descriptively representative and informed group of Australians their views on the use of legislation and fiscal measures by governments to address childhood obesity. A citizens' jury, held in South Australia in April 2015, was asked to consider the question: What laws, if any, should we have in Australia to address childhood obesity? The jury agreed that prevention of obesity was complex requiring multifaceted government intervention. Recommendations fell into the areas of health promotion and education (n=4), regulation of food marketing (n=3), taxation/subsidies (n=2) and a parliamentary enquiry. School-based nutrition education and health promotion and mandatory front-of-pack interpretive labelling of food and drink were ranked 1 and 2 with taxation of high fat, high sugar food and drink third. The recommendations were similar to findings from other citizens' juries held in Australia suggesting that the reticence of decision makers in Australia, and potentially elsewhere, to use legislative and fiscal measures to address childhood obesity is misguided. Supporting relevant informed public discussion could facilitate a politically acceptable legislative approach.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.VIROL.2017.04.003
Abstract: The HCV NS5A protein is essential for viral RNA replication and virus particle assembly. To study the viral replication cycle and NS5A biology we generated an infectious HCV construct with a NanoLuciferase (NLuc) insertion within NS5A. Surprisingly, beyond its utility as a sensitive reporter of cytoplasmic viral RNA replication, we also observed strong luminescence in cell culture fluids. Further analysis using assembly-defective viruses and subgenomic replicons revealed that infectious virus production was not required for extracellular NS5A-NLuc activity but was associated with enrichment of extracellular NS5A-NLuc in intermediate-density fractions similar to those of exosomes and virus particles. Additionally, BRET analysis indicated that intracellular and extracellular forms of NS5A may adopt differing conformations. Importantly, infection studies using a human liver chimeric mouse model confirmed robust infection in vivo and ready detection of NLuc activity in serum. We hypothesise that the presence of NS5A in extracellular fluids contributes to HCV pathogenesis.
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.1071/AH13096
Abstract: Research is needed into current melanoma follow-up practices and their implications for patients and society. We highlight the need and suggest a way forward.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 10-03-2023
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PPAT.1010843
Abstract: The immunological surveillance factors controlling vulnerability of the female reproductive tract (FRT) to sexually transmitted viral infections are not well understood. Interferon-epsilon (IFNɛ) is a distinct, immunoregulatory type-I IFN that is constitutively expressed by FRT epithelium and is not induced by pathogens like other antiviral IFNs α, β and λ. We show the necessity of IFNɛ for Zika Virus (ZIKV) protection by: increased susceptibility of IFNɛ -/- mice their “rescue” by intravaginal recombinant IFNɛ treatment and blockade of protective endogenous IFNɛ by neutralising antibody. Complementary studies in human FRT cell lines showed IFNɛ had potent anti-ZIKV activity, associated with transcriptome responses similar to IFNλ but lacking the proinflammatory gene signature of IFNα. IFNɛ activated STAT1/2 pathways similar to IFNα and λ that were inhibited by ZIKV-encoded non-structural (NS) proteins, but not if IFNε exposure preceded infection. This scenario is provided by the constitutive expression of endogenous IFNε. However, the IFNɛ expression was not inhibited by ZIKV NS proteins despite their ability to antagonise the expression of IFNβ or λ. Thus, the constitutive expression of IFNɛ provides cellular resistance to viral strategies of antagonism and maximises the antiviral activity of the FRT. These results show that the unique spatiotemporal properties of IFNε provides an innate immune surveillance network in the FRT that is a significant barrier to viral infection with important implications for prevention and therapy.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 18-02-2014
DOI: 10.1111/IJCP.12393
Publisher: American Public Health Association
Date: 10-2009
Abstract: Objectives. We aimed to examine community knowledge about and attitudes toward the threat of pandemic influenza and assess the community acceptability of strategies to reduce its effect. Methods. We conducted computer-aided telephone interviews in 2007 with a cross-sectional s le of rural and metropolitan residents of South Australia. Results. Of 1975 households interviewed, half (50.2%) had never heard of pandemic influenza or were unaware of its meaning. Only 10% of respondents were extremely concerned about the threat of pandemic influenza. Respondents identified children as the highest priority for vaccination, if supplies were limited they ranked politicians and teachers as the lowest priority. Although only 61.7% of respondents agreed with a policy of home isolation, 98.2% agreed if it was part of a national strategy. Respondents considered television to be the best means of educating the community. Conclusions. Community knowledge about pandemic influenza is poor despite widespread concern. Public education about pandemic influenza is essential if strategies to reduce the impact of the disease are to be effective.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-01-2018
DOI: 10.1007/S40271-017-0293-1
Abstract: Patient involvement is increasingly recognized as critical to the development, introduction and use (i.e. the lifecycle) of new and effective therapies, particularly those for rare diseases, where natural histories and the impact on patients and families are less well-understood than for common diseases. However, little is known about how patients and families would like to be involved during the lifecycle. The aim of this study was to explore ways in which Canadian patients with rare diseases and their families would like to be involved in the lifecycle of therapies and identify their priorities for involvement. Patients with rare diseases and their families were recruited to participate in two deliberative sessions, during which concepts related to decision-making uncertainty and the technology lifecycle were introduced before eliciting input around ways in which they could be involved. This was followed by a webinar, which was used to further identify opportunities for involvement. The data were then analyzed qualitatively using eclectic coding. Patients and families identified opportunities that fell into three goals: (1) incorporation of their 'lived experience' in coverage decision making (i.e. decisions by governments on funding new therapies) (2) improved care for patients and (3) greater awareness of rare diseases, with the first being a priority. Opportunities for patients and families to contribute their 'lived experience' are needed throughout the orphan drug lifecycle, but the ideal mechanisms for providing this input have yet to be determined.
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Start Date: 2020
End Date: 2022
Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 2018
End Date: 2020
Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 2019
End Date: 2021
Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 2017
End Date: 2018
Funder: Channel 7 Children's Research Foundation
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 2013
End Date: 2015
Funder: Australian Centre for HIV and Hepatitis Virology Research
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 2020
End Date: 2021
Funder: Hospital Research Foundation
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 2012
End Date: 2015
Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council
View Funded Activity