Dynamics of IL-4 and IL-13 expression in the airways of sheep following allergen challenge
- Liravi, Bahar, Piedrafita, David, Nguyen, Gary, Bischof, Robert
- Authors: Liravi, Bahar , Piedrafita, David , Nguyen, Gary , Bischof, Robert
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Pulmonary Medicine Vol. 15, no. 1 (2015), p. 1-11
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description:
Background: IL-4 and IL-13 play a critical yet poorly understood role in orchestrating the recruitment and activation of effector cells of the asthmatic response and driving the pathophysiology of allergic asthma. The house dust mite (HDM) sheep asthma model displays many features of the human condition and is an ideal model to further elucidate the involvement of these critical Th
2 cytokines. We hypothesized that airway exposure to HDM allergen would induce or elevate the expression profile of IL-4 and IL-13 during the allergic airway response in this large animal model of asthma. Methods: Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples were collected from saline-and house dust mite (HDM)-challenged lung lobes of sensitized sheep from 0 to 48h post-challenge. BAL cytokines (IL-4, IL-13, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-aα) were each measured by ELISA. IL-4 and IL-13 expression was assessed in BAL leukocytes by flow cytometry and in airway tissue sections by immunohistology. Results: IL-4 and IL-13 were increased in BAL samples following airway allergen challenge. HDM challenge resulted in a significant increase in BAL IL-4 levels at 4h compared to saline-challenged airways, while BAL IL-13 levels were elevated at all time-points after allergen challenge. IL-6 levels were maintained following HDM challenge but declined after saline challenge, while HDM administration resulted in an acute elevation in IL-10 at 4h but no change in TNF-aα levels over time. Lymphocytes were the main early source of IL-4, with IL-4 release by alveolar macrophages (AMs) prominent from 24h post-allergen challenge. IL-13 producing AMs were increased at 4 and 24h following HDM compared to saline challenge, and tissue staining provided evidence of IL-13 expression in airway epithelium as well as immune cells in airway tissue. Conclusion: In a sheep model of allergic asthma, airway inflammation is accompanied by the temporal release of key cytokines following allergen exposure that primarily reflects the Th2 -driven nature of the immune response in asthma. The present study demonstrates for the first time the involvement of IL-4 and IL-13 in a relevant large animal model of allergic airways disease. © 2015 Liravi et al.
- Authors: Liravi, Bahar , Piedrafita, David , Nguyen, Gary , Bischof, Robert
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Pulmonary Medicine Vol. 15, no. 1 (2015), p. 1-11
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description:
Background: IL-4 and IL-13 play a critical yet poorly understood role in orchestrating the recruitment and activation of effector cells of the asthmatic response and driving the pathophysiology of allergic asthma. The house dust mite (HDM) sheep asthma model displays many features of the human condition and is an ideal model to further elucidate the involvement of these critical Th
2 cytokines. We hypothesized that airway exposure to HDM allergen would induce or elevate the expression profile of IL-4 and IL-13 during the allergic airway response in this large animal model of asthma. Methods: Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples were collected from saline-and house dust mite (HDM)-challenged lung lobes of sensitized sheep from 0 to 48h post-challenge. BAL cytokines (IL-4, IL-13, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-aα) were each measured by ELISA. IL-4 and IL-13 expression was assessed in BAL leukocytes by flow cytometry and in airway tissue sections by immunohistology. Results: IL-4 and IL-13 were increased in BAL samples following airway allergen challenge. HDM challenge resulted in a significant increase in BAL IL-4 levels at 4h compared to saline-challenged airways, while BAL IL-13 levels were elevated at all time-points after allergen challenge. IL-6 levels were maintained following HDM challenge but declined after saline challenge, while HDM administration resulted in an acute elevation in IL-10 at 4h but no change in TNF-aα levels over time. Lymphocytes were the main early source of IL-4, with IL-4 release by alveolar macrophages (AMs) prominent from 24h post-allergen challenge. IL-13 producing AMs were increased at 4 and 24h following HDM compared to saline challenge, and tissue staining provided evidence of IL-13 expression in airway epithelium as well as immune cells in airway tissue. Conclusion: In a sheep model of allergic asthma, airway inflammation is accompanied by the temporal release of key cytokines following allergen exposure that primarily reflects the Th2 -driven nature of the immune response in asthma. The present study demonstrates for the first time the involvement of IL-4 and IL-13 in a relevant large animal model of allergic airways disease. © 2015 Liravi et al.
- Eime, Rochelle, Casey, Meghan, Harvey, Jack, Charity, Melanie, Young, Janet, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Casey, Meghan , Harvey, Jack , Charity, Melanie , Young, Janet , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 15, no. 1 (2015), p. 1-7
- Full Text: false
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Many children are not physically active enough for a health benefit. One avenue of physical activity is modified sport programs, designed as an introduction to sport for young children. This longitudinal study identified trends in participation among children aged 4-12 years. Outcomes included continuation in the modified sports program, withdrawal from the program or transition to club sport competition. Methods: De-identified data on participant membership registrations in three popular sports in the Australian state of Victoria were obtained from each sport's state governing body over a 4-year period (2009-2012 for Sport A and 2010-2013 for Sports B and C). From the membership registrations, those who were enrolled in a modified sports program in the first year were tracked over the subsequent three years and classified as one of: transition (member transitioned from a modified sport program to a club competition); continue (member continued participation in a modified sport program; or withdraw (member discontinued a modified program and did not transition to club competition). Results: Many modified sports participants were very young, especially males aged 4-6 years. More children withdrew from their modified sport program rather than transitioning. There were age differences between when boys and girls started, withdrew and transitioned from the modified sports programs. Conclusions: If we can retain children in sport it is likely to be beneficial for their health. This study highlights considerations for the development and implementation of sport policies and programming to ensure lifelong participation is encouraged for both males and females. © 2015 Eime et al.
Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae in paediatric meningitis patients at Goroka General Hospital, Papua New Guinea : Serotype distribution and antimicrobial susceptibility in the pre-vaccine era
- Greenhill, Andrew, Phuanukoonnon, Suparat, Michael, Audrey, Yoannes, Mition, Orami, Tilda, Smith, Helen, Murphy, Denise, Blyth, Christopher, Reeder, John, Siba, Peter, Pomat, William, Lehmann, Deborah
- Authors: Greenhill, Andrew , Phuanukoonnon, Suparat , Michael, Audrey , Yoannes, Mition , Orami, Tilda , Smith, Helen , Murphy, Denise , Blyth, Christopher , Reeder, John , Siba, Peter , Pomat, William , Lehmann, Deborah
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Infectious Diseases Vol. 15, no. 485 (2015), p. 1-8
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Bacterial meningitis remains an important infection globally, with the greatest burden in children in low-income settings, including Papua New Guinea (PNG). We present serotype, antimicrobial susceptibility and outcome data from paediatric meningitis patients prior to introduction of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) in PNG, providing a baseline for evaluation of immunisation programs. Methods: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was collected from children admitted to Goroka General Hospital with suspected meningitis between 1996 and 2005. Culture and sensitivity was conducted, and pneumococci and H. influenzae were serotyped. Laboratory findings were linked to clinical outcomes. Results: We enrolled 1884 children. A recognised pathogen was identified in 375 children (19.9%). Streptococcus pneumoniae (n = 180) and Hib (n = 153) accounted for 88.8% of pathogens isolated. 24 different pneumococcal serogroups were identified; non-PCV types 2, 24 and 46 accounted for 31.6% of pneumococcal meningitis. 10- and 13-valent PCVs would cover 44.1% and 45.4% of pneumococcal meningitis respectively. Pneumococcal isolates were commonly resistant to penicillin (21.5%) and 23% of Hib isolates were simultaneously resistant to ampicillin, co-trimoxazole and chloramphenicol. The case fatality rate in patients with a recognised bacterial pathogen was 13.4% compared to 8.5% in culture-negative patients. Conclusions: If implemented in routine expanded programme of immunisation (EPI) with high coverage, current PCVs could prevent almost half of pneumococcal meningitis cases. Given the diversity of circulating serotypes in PNG serotype replacement is of concern. Ongoing surveillance is imperative to monitor the impact of vaccines. In the longer term vaccines providing broader protection against pneumococcal meningitis will be needed. © 2015 Greenhill et al.
- Authors: Greenhill, Andrew , Phuanukoonnon, Suparat , Michael, Audrey , Yoannes, Mition , Orami, Tilda , Smith, Helen , Murphy, Denise , Blyth, Christopher , Reeder, John , Siba, Peter , Pomat, William , Lehmann, Deborah
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Infectious Diseases Vol. 15, no. 485 (2015), p. 1-8
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Bacterial meningitis remains an important infection globally, with the greatest burden in children in low-income settings, including Papua New Guinea (PNG). We present serotype, antimicrobial susceptibility and outcome data from paediatric meningitis patients prior to introduction of Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) in PNG, providing a baseline for evaluation of immunisation programs. Methods: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was collected from children admitted to Goroka General Hospital with suspected meningitis between 1996 and 2005. Culture and sensitivity was conducted, and pneumococci and H. influenzae were serotyped. Laboratory findings were linked to clinical outcomes. Results: We enrolled 1884 children. A recognised pathogen was identified in 375 children (19.9%). Streptococcus pneumoniae (n = 180) and Hib (n = 153) accounted for 88.8% of pathogens isolated. 24 different pneumococcal serogroups were identified; non-PCV types 2, 24 and 46 accounted for 31.6% of pneumococcal meningitis. 10- and 13-valent PCVs would cover 44.1% and 45.4% of pneumococcal meningitis respectively. Pneumococcal isolates were commonly resistant to penicillin (21.5%) and 23% of Hib isolates were simultaneously resistant to ampicillin, co-trimoxazole and chloramphenicol. The case fatality rate in patients with a recognised bacterial pathogen was 13.4% compared to 8.5% in culture-negative patients. Conclusions: If implemented in routine expanded programme of immunisation (EPI) with high coverage, current PCVs could prevent almost half of pneumococcal meningitis cases. Given the diversity of circulating serotypes in PNG serotype replacement is of concern. Ongoing surveillance is imperative to monitor the impact of vaccines. In the longer term vaccines providing broader protection against pneumococcal meningitis will be needed. © 2015 Greenhill et al.
The contribution of sport participation to overall health enhancing physical activity levels in Australia : A population-based study
- Eime, Rochelle, Harvey, Jack, Charity, Melanie, Casey, Meghan, van Uffelen, Jannique, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Charity, Melanie , Casey, Meghan , van Uffelen, Jannique , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 15, no. 1 (2015), p. 1-12
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- Description: Background: The contribution of sport to overall health-enhancing leisure-time physical activity (HELPA) in adults is not well understood. The aim was to examine this in a national sample of Australians aged 15+ years, and to extend this examination to other ostensibly sport-associated activities. Methods: The 2010 Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS) was conducted by telephone interview in four quarterly waves. Data from this survey were analysed to categorise leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) as HELPA or non-HELPA, and to categorise HELPA activities and sessions of HELPA activity by setting and frequency. The contribution of sport to HELPA was estimated, both directly through activities and settings classified as sport per se, and indirectly through other fitness activities ostensibly related to preparation for sport and enhancement of sport performance. Results: Of 21,602 respondents, 82 % reported some LTPA in the 12 months prior to the survey. In aggregate, respondents reported 37,020 activity types in the previous 12 months, of which 94 % were HELPA. Of HELPA activities, 71 % were non-organised, 11 % were organised but not sport club-based, and 18 % were sport club-based. Of all sport activities, 52 % were HELPA. Of sport HELPA, 33 % was sport club-based and 78 % was undertaken ≥12 times/year. Sport club members were significantly more likely to have participated in running, but significantly less likely to have participated in walking or aerobics/fitness training, than non-club members. Conclusions: Club sport participation contributes considerably to LTPA at health enhancing levels. Health promotion policies, and more specifically physical activity policies, should emphasize the role of sport in enhancing health. Sport policy should recognise the health-promoting role of community-based sport in addition to the current predominant focus on elite pathways. © 2015 Eime et al.
- Authors: Eime, Rochelle , Harvey, Jack , Charity, Melanie , Casey, Meghan , van Uffelen, Jannique , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 15, no. 1 (2015), p. 1-12
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The contribution of sport to overall health-enhancing leisure-time physical activity (HELPA) in adults is not well understood. The aim was to examine this in a national sample of Australians aged 15+ years, and to extend this examination to other ostensibly sport-associated activities. Methods: The 2010 Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (ERASS) was conducted by telephone interview in four quarterly waves. Data from this survey were analysed to categorise leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) as HELPA or non-HELPA, and to categorise HELPA activities and sessions of HELPA activity by setting and frequency. The contribution of sport to HELPA was estimated, both directly through activities and settings classified as sport per se, and indirectly through other fitness activities ostensibly related to preparation for sport and enhancement of sport performance. Results: Of 21,602 respondents, 82 % reported some LTPA in the 12 months prior to the survey. In aggregate, respondents reported 37,020 activity types in the previous 12 months, of which 94 % were HELPA. Of HELPA activities, 71 % were non-organised, 11 % were organised but not sport club-based, and 18 % were sport club-based. Of all sport activities, 52 % were HELPA. Of sport HELPA, 33 % was sport club-based and 78 % was undertaken ≥12 times/year. Sport club members were significantly more likely to have participated in running, but significantly less likely to have participated in walking or aerobics/fitness training, than non-club members. Conclusions: Club sport participation contributes considerably to LTPA at health enhancing levels. Health promotion policies, and more specifically physical activity policies, should emphasize the role of sport in enhancing health. Sport policy should recognise the health-promoting role of community-based sport in addition to the current predominant focus on elite pathways. © 2015 Eime et al.
The effects of playing Nintendo Wii on depression, sense of belonging and social support in Australian aged care residents : a protocol study of a mixed methods intervention trial
- Chesler, Jessica, McLaren, Suzanne, Klein, Britt, Watson, Shaun
- Authors: Chesler, Jessica , McLaren, Suzanne , Klein, Britt , Watson, Shaun
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Geriatrics Vol. 15, no. 1 (2015), p. 1-8
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- Description: Background: The proportion of people aged 65 or older is the fastest growing age group worldwide. Older adults in aged care facilities have higher levels of depression, and lower levels of social support and sense of belonging compared with older adults living in the community. Research has begun to assess the effectiveness of interventions to improve the mental health of residents and has found both cognitive and physical benefits of video game playing. The benefits of playing these games in a group may also lead to greater social interaction and decreased loneliness. The current study aims to investigate an intervention program designed to foster relationships among older adults in care based on shared interests. Residents will be assessed on the effectiveness of a 6 week program of playing Wii bowling in comparison to a control group. Method/Design: Participants will be allocated to the intervention (Wii bowling) or the control group based on their place of residence. Participants in the intervention group will be invited to participate in Wii bowling twice weekly, with up to three other residents for a period of 6 weeks. Residents in both conditions will be assessed for depression, social support, sense of belonging, and current self-rated mood at pre-intervention (0 weeks), post-intervention (6 weeks), and at 2-month follow up (14 weeks). Qualitative data on social interaction between group members will also be collected at weeks 1, 3, and 6. Both groups will receive a Wii console after week 6 to establish if residents and staff engage with the Wii without intervention. Discussion: The Wii provides a user friendly platform for older adults to use video games, and it incorporates both social and competitive aspects in the game play. Existing research has not extensively investigated the social aspects of using this type of technology with older adults. If found to be effective, incorporating Wii games into an activity schedule may benefit the mental health of older adults living in care by establishing an intervention that is fun, economical, and easy to use. Trial Registry: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12614000445673. © 2015 Chesler et al.
- Authors: Chesler, Jessica , McLaren, Suzanne , Klein, Britt , Watson, Shaun
- Date: 2015
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Geriatrics Vol. 15, no. 1 (2015), p. 1-8
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The proportion of people aged 65 or older is the fastest growing age group worldwide. Older adults in aged care facilities have higher levels of depression, and lower levels of social support and sense of belonging compared with older adults living in the community. Research has begun to assess the effectiveness of interventions to improve the mental health of residents and has found both cognitive and physical benefits of video game playing. The benefits of playing these games in a group may also lead to greater social interaction and decreased loneliness. The current study aims to investigate an intervention program designed to foster relationships among older adults in care based on shared interests. Residents will be assessed on the effectiveness of a 6 week program of playing Wii bowling in comparison to a control group. Method/Design: Participants will be allocated to the intervention (Wii bowling) or the control group based on their place of residence. Participants in the intervention group will be invited to participate in Wii bowling twice weekly, with up to three other residents for a period of 6 weeks. Residents in both conditions will be assessed for depression, social support, sense of belonging, and current self-rated mood at pre-intervention (0 weeks), post-intervention (6 weeks), and at 2-month follow up (14 weeks). Qualitative data on social interaction between group members will also be collected at weeks 1, 3, and 6. Both groups will receive a Wii console after week 6 to establish if residents and staff engage with the Wii without intervention. Discussion: The Wii provides a user friendly platform for older adults to use video games, and it incorporates both social and competitive aspects in the game play. Existing research has not extensively investigated the social aspects of using this type of technology with older adults. If found to be effective, incorporating Wii games into an activity schedule may benefit the mental health of older adults living in care by establishing an intervention that is fun, economical, and easy to use. Trial Registry: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12614000445673. © 2015 Chesler et al.
Discovery of novel Schistosoma japonicum antigens using a targeted protein microarray approach
- McWilliam, Hamish, Driguez, Patrick, Piedrafita, David, McManus, Donald, Meeusen, Els
- Authors: McWilliam, Hamish , Driguez, Patrick , Piedrafita, David , McManus, Donald , Meeusen, Els
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Parasites and Vectors Vol. 7, no. 1 (2014), p. 1-11
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Novel vaccine candidates against Schistosoma japonicum are required, and antigens present in the vulnerable larval developmental stage are attractive targets. Post-genomic technologies are now available which can contribute to such antigen discovery. Methods. A schistosome-specific protein microarray was probed using the local antibody response against migrating larvae. Antigens were assessed for their novelty and predicted larval expression and host-exposed features. One antigen was further characterised and its sequence and structure were analysed in silico. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to analyse transcript expression throughout development, and immunoblotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays employed to determine antigen recognition by antibody samples. Results: Several known and novel antigens were discovered, two of which showed up-regulated transcription in schistosomula. One novel antigen, termed S. japonicum Ly-6-like protein 1 (Sj-L6L-1), was further characterised and shown to share structural and sequence features with the Ly-6 protein family. It was found to be present in the worm tegument and expressed in both the larval and adult worms, but was found to be antigenic only in the lungs that the larvae migrate to and traverse. Conclusions: This study represents a novel approach to vaccine antigen discovery and may contribute to schistosome vaccine development against this important group of human and veterinary pathogens. © 2014 McWilliam et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
- Authors: McWilliam, Hamish , Driguez, Patrick , Piedrafita, David , McManus, Donald , Meeusen, Els
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Parasites and Vectors Vol. 7, no. 1 (2014), p. 1-11
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Novel vaccine candidates against Schistosoma japonicum are required, and antigens present in the vulnerable larval developmental stage are attractive targets. Post-genomic technologies are now available which can contribute to such antigen discovery. Methods. A schistosome-specific protein microarray was probed using the local antibody response against migrating larvae. Antigens were assessed for their novelty and predicted larval expression and host-exposed features. One antigen was further characterised and its sequence and structure were analysed in silico. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to analyse transcript expression throughout development, and immunoblotting and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays employed to determine antigen recognition by antibody samples. Results: Several known and novel antigens were discovered, two of which showed up-regulated transcription in schistosomula. One novel antigen, termed S. japonicum Ly-6-like protein 1 (Sj-L6L-1), was further characterised and shown to share structural and sequence features with the Ly-6 protein family. It was found to be present in the worm tegument and expressed in both the larval and adult worms, but was found to be antigenic only in the lungs that the larvae migrate to and traverse. Conclusions: This study represents a novel approach to vaccine antigen discovery and may contribute to schistosome vaccine development against this important group of human and veterinary pathogens. © 2014 McWilliam et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
Effective pulmonary delivery of an aerosolized plasmid DNA vaccine via surface acoustic wave nebulization
- Rajapaksa, Anushi, Ho, Jenny, Qi, Aaisha, Bischof, Robert, Nguyen, Tri-Hung, Tate, Michelle, Piedrafita, David, McIntosh, Michelle, Yeo, Leslie, Meeusen, Els, Coppel, Ross, Friend, James
- Authors: Rajapaksa, Anushi , Ho, Jenny , Qi, Aaisha , Bischof, Robert , Nguyen, Tri-Hung , Tate, Michelle , Piedrafita, David , McIntosh, Michelle , Yeo, Leslie , Meeusen, Els , Coppel, Ross , Friend, James
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Respiratory Research Vol. 15, no. 1 (2014), p. 1-12
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Pulmonary-delivered gene therapy promises to mitigate vaccine safety issues and reduce the need for needles and skilled personnel to use them. While plasmid DNA (pDNA) offers a rapid route to vaccine production without side effects or reliance on cold chain storage, its delivery to the lung has proved challenging. Conventional methods, including jet and ultrasonic nebulizers, fail to deliver large biomolecules like pDNA intact due to the shear and cavitational stresses present during nebulization.Methods: In vitro structural analysis followed by in vivo protein expression studies served in assessing the integrity of the pDNA subjected to surface acoustic wave (SAW) nebulisation. In vivo immunization trials were then carried out in rats using SAW nebulized pDNA (influenza A, human hemagglutinin H1N1) condensate delivered via intratracheal instillation. Finally, in vivo pulmonary vaccinations using pDNA for influenza was nebulized and delivered via a respirator to sheep.Results: The SAW nebulizer was effective at generating pDNA aerosols with sizes optimal for deep lung delivery. Successful gene expression was observed in mouse lung epithelial cells, when SAW-nebulized pDNA was delivered to male Swiss mice via intratracheal instillation. Effective systemic and mucosal antibody responses were found in rats via post-nebulized, condensed fluid instillation. Significantly, we demonstrated the suitability of the SAW nebulizer to administer unprotected pDNA encoding an influenza A virus surface glycoprotein to respirated sheep via aerosolized inhalation.Conclusion: Given the difficulty of inducing functional antibody responses for DNA vaccination in large animals, we report here the first instance of successful aerosolized inhalation delivery of a pDNA vaccine in a large animal model relevant to human lung development, structure, physiology, and disease, using a novel, low-power (<1 W) surface acoustic wave (SAW) hand-held nebulizer to produce droplets of pDNA with a size range suitable for delivery to the lower respiratory airways. © 2014 Rajapaksa et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
- Authors: Rajapaksa, Anushi , Ho, Jenny , Qi, Aaisha , Bischof, Robert , Nguyen, Tri-Hung , Tate, Michelle , Piedrafita, David , McIntosh, Michelle , Yeo, Leslie , Meeusen, Els , Coppel, Ross , Friend, James
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Respiratory Research Vol. 15, no. 1 (2014), p. 1-12
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Pulmonary-delivered gene therapy promises to mitigate vaccine safety issues and reduce the need for needles and skilled personnel to use them. While plasmid DNA (pDNA) offers a rapid route to vaccine production without side effects or reliance on cold chain storage, its delivery to the lung has proved challenging. Conventional methods, including jet and ultrasonic nebulizers, fail to deliver large biomolecules like pDNA intact due to the shear and cavitational stresses present during nebulization.Methods: In vitro structural analysis followed by in vivo protein expression studies served in assessing the integrity of the pDNA subjected to surface acoustic wave (SAW) nebulisation. In vivo immunization trials were then carried out in rats using SAW nebulized pDNA (influenza A, human hemagglutinin H1N1) condensate delivered via intratracheal instillation. Finally, in vivo pulmonary vaccinations using pDNA for influenza was nebulized and delivered via a respirator to sheep.Results: The SAW nebulizer was effective at generating pDNA aerosols with sizes optimal for deep lung delivery. Successful gene expression was observed in mouse lung epithelial cells, when SAW-nebulized pDNA was delivered to male Swiss mice via intratracheal instillation. Effective systemic and mucosal antibody responses were found in rats via post-nebulized, condensed fluid instillation. Significantly, we demonstrated the suitability of the SAW nebulizer to administer unprotected pDNA encoding an influenza A virus surface glycoprotein to respirated sheep via aerosolized inhalation.Conclusion: Given the difficulty of inducing functional antibody responses for DNA vaccination in large animals, we report here the first instance of successful aerosolized inhalation delivery of a pDNA vaccine in a large animal model relevant to human lung development, structure, physiology, and disease, using a novel, low-power (<1 W) surface acoustic wave (SAW) hand-held nebulizer to produce droplets of pDNA with a size range suitable for delivery to the lower respiratory airways. © 2014 Rajapaksa et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
Linking secondary school physical education with community sport and recreation for girls: A process evaluation
- Casey, Meghan, Telford, Amanda, Mooney, Amanda, Harvey, Jack, Eime, Rochelle, Payne, Warren
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Telford, Amanda , Mooney, Amanda , Harvey, Jack , Eime, Rochelle , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 14, no. 1039 (2014), p. 1-14
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The purpose of this study was to undertake a process evaluation to examine the reach, adoption and implementation of a school-community linked physical activity (PA) program for girls aged 12 - 15 years (School Years 7 - 9) using the RE-AIM framework. Methods. Various approaches were used to assess 'reach', 'adoption' and implementation: (a) a school environment survey of intervention schools (n = 6); (b) teacher feedback regarding the professional development component (91.1% response rate) and lesson implementation (60.8% response rate); and (c) post-intervention focus group interviews with physical education (PE) teachers (n = 29), students (n = 125), coaches (n = 13) and instructors (n = 8) regarding program experiences. Results: Reach and Adoption: Seven schools (n = 1491 Year 7-9 female student enrolment; 70% adoption rate), five tennis clubs, eight football clubs and five leisure centres participated in the program during 2011. Implementation: Program design and professional development opportunities (training, resource manual and opportunities to work with coaches and instructors during PE classes) supported implementation and student engagement in PA. However, there was a lack of individual and organisational readiness to adopt program principles. For some deliverers there were deeply embedded ideologies that were not aligned with the Game Sense teaching approach upon which the program was based. Further, cognitive components of the program such as self-management were not widely adopted as other components of the program tended to be prioritised. Conclusion: The program design and resources supported the success of the program, however, some aspects were not implemented as intended, which may have affected the likelihood of achieving further positive outcomes. Barriers to program implementation were identified and should be considered when designing school-community linked interventions. In particular, future programs should seek to assess and adjust for organizational readiness within the study design. For example, shared commitment and abilities of program deliverers to implement the program needs to be determined to support program implementation. Trial registration. ACTRN12614000446662. April 30th 2014.
- Authors: Casey, Meghan , Telford, Amanda , Mooney, Amanda , Harvey, Jack , Eime, Rochelle , Payne, Warren
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: BMC Public Health Vol. 14, no. 1039 (2014), p. 1-14
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: The purpose of this study was to undertake a process evaluation to examine the reach, adoption and implementation of a school-community linked physical activity (PA) program for girls aged 12 - 15 years (School Years 7 - 9) using the RE-AIM framework. Methods. Various approaches were used to assess 'reach', 'adoption' and implementation: (a) a school environment survey of intervention schools (n = 6); (b) teacher feedback regarding the professional development component (91.1% response rate) and lesson implementation (60.8% response rate); and (c) post-intervention focus group interviews with physical education (PE) teachers (n = 29), students (n = 125), coaches (n = 13) and instructors (n = 8) regarding program experiences. Results: Reach and Adoption: Seven schools (n = 1491 Year 7-9 female student enrolment; 70% adoption rate), five tennis clubs, eight football clubs and five leisure centres participated in the program during 2011. Implementation: Program design and professional development opportunities (training, resource manual and opportunities to work with coaches and instructors during PE classes) supported implementation and student engagement in PA. However, there was a lack of individual and organisational readiness to adopt program principles. For some deliverers there were deeply embedded ideologies that were not aligned with the Game Sense teaching approach upon which the program was based. Further, cognitive components of the program such as self-management were not widely adopted as other components of the program tended to be prioritised. Conclusion: The program design and resources supported the success of the program, however, some aspects were not implemented as intended, which may have affected the likelihood of achieving further positive outcomes. Barriers to program implementation were identified and should be considered when designing school-community linked interventions. In particular, future programs should seek to assess and adjust for organizational readiness within the study design. For example, shared commitment and abilities of program deliverers to implement the program needs to be determined to support program implementation. Trial registration. ACTRN12614000446662. April 30th 2014.
Optimizing prediction of binge eating episodes : A comparison approach to test alternative conceptualizations of the affect regulation model
- Fuller-Tyszkiewicz, Matthew, Richardson, Ben, Skouteris, Helen, Austin, David, Castle, David, Busija, Lucy, Klein, Britt, Holmes, Milllicent, Broadbent, Jaclyn
- Authors: Fuller-Tyszkiewicz, Matthew , Richardson, Ben , Skouteris, Helen , Austin, David , Castle, David , Busija, Lucy , Klein, Britt , Holmes, Milllicent , Broadbent, Jaclyn
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Eating Disorders Vol. 2, no. 1 (2014), p. 1-8
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Although a wealth of studies have tested the link between negative mood states and likelihood of a subsequent binge eating episode, the assumption that this relationship follows a typical linear dose-response pattern (i.e., that risk of a binge episode increases in proportion to level of negative mood) has not been challenged. The present study demonstrates the applicability of an alternative, non-linear conceptualization of this relationship, in which the strength of association between negative mood and probability of a binge episode increases above a threshold value for the mood variable relative to the slope below this threshold value (threshold dose response model).Methods: A sample of 93 women aged 18 to 40 completed an online survey at random intervals seven times per day for a period of one week. Participants self-reported their current mood state and whether they had recently engaged in an eating episode symptomatic of a binge.Results: As hypothesized, the threshold approach was a better predictor than the linear dose-response modeling of likelihood of a binge episode. The superiority of the threshold approach was found even at low levels of negative mood (3 out of 10, with higher scores reflecting more negative mood). Additionally, severity of negative mood beyond this threshold value appears to be useful for predicting time to onset of a binge episode.Conclusions: Present findings suggest that simple dose-response formulations for the association between negative mood and onset of binge episodes miss vital aspects of this relationship. Most notably, the impact of mood on binge eating appears to depend on whether a threshold value of negative mood has been breached, and elevation in mood beyond this point may be useful for clinicians and researchers to identify time to onset. © 2014 Fuller-Tyszkiewicz et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
- Authors: Fuller-Tyszkiewicz, Matthew , Richardson, Ben , Skouteris, Helen , Austin, David , Castle, David , Busija, Lucy , Klein, Britt , Holmes, Milllicent , Broadbent, Jaclyn
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Journal of Eating Disorders Vol. 2, no. 1 (2014), p. 1-8
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Although a wealth of studies have tested the link between negative mood states and likelihood of a subsequent binge eating episode, the assumption that this relationship follows a typical linear dose-response pattern (i.e., that risk of a binge episode increases in proportion to level of negative mood) has not been challenged. The present study demonstrates the applicability of an alternative, non-linear conceptualization of this relationship, in which the strength of association between negative mood and probability of a binge episode increases above a threshold value for the mood variable relative to the slope below this threshold value (threshold dose response model).Methods: A sample of 93 women aged 18 to 40 completed an online survey at random intervals seven times per day for a period of one week. Participants self-reported their current mood state and whether they had recently engaged in an eating episode symptomatic of a binge.Results: As hypothesized, the threshold approach was a better predictor than the linear dose-response modeling of likelihood of a binge episode. The superiority of the threshold approach was found even at low levels of negative mood (3 out of 10, with higher scores reflecting more negative mood). Additionally, severity of negative mood beyond this threshold value appears to be useful for predicting time to onset of a binge episode.Conclusions: Present findings suggest that simple dose-response formulations for the association between negative mood and onset of binge episodes miss vital aspects of this relationship. Most notably, the impact of mood on binge eating appears to depend on whether a threshold value of negative mood has been breached, and elevation in mood beyond this point may be useful for clinicians and researchers to identify time to onset. © 2014 Fuller-Tyszkiewicz et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
Out & Online effectiveness of a tailored online multi-symptom mental health and wellbeing program for same-sex attracted young adults: Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
- Abbott, Jo-Anne, Klein, Britt, McLaren, Suzanne, Austin, David, Molloy, Mari, Meyer, Denny, McLeod, Bronte
- Authors: Abbott, Jo-Anne , Klein, Britt , McLaren, Suzanne , Austin, David , Molloy, Mari , Meyer, Denny , McLeod, Bronte
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Trials Vol. 15, no. 1 (2014), p. 1-19
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- Description: Background: Same-sex attracted young adults have been found to experience higher rates of mental health problems and greater difficulties in accessing specialist mental health care services compared to their heterosexual peers. Internet-based mental health interventions have the potential to be more engaging and accessible to young adults compared to those delivered face-to-face. However, they are rarely inclusive of lesbian women and gay men. Thus, the current study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an online mental health and wellbeing program, Out & Online (http://www.outandonline.org.au), in comparison to a wait-list control group, for reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms in same-sex attracted young adults aged between 18 and 25 years. Methods/Design: We are recruiting, through media and community organisations, 200 same-sex attracted young adults with anxiety and/or depressive symptoms and mild to moderate psychological distress (Kessler-10 score between 16 to 21). Participants will be randomly allocated to the intervention (the online program) or the wait-list control group based on a permuted blocked randomisation method to allow for stratification by gender. Participants in the intervention group will receive a tailored program for up to three types of mental health difficulties simultaneously. The primary outcome of anxiety and/or depressive symptoms, and secondary outcomes related to psychological distress, wellbeing and health behaviour will be measured at pre-intervention (0 week), post-intervention (8 weeks) and at a 3-month follow-up (20 weeks). Discussion: This online mental health and wellbeing program will be one of the first online interventions to be designed specifically to be relevant for same-sex attracted individuals. If the program is found to be effective it will improve access to specialist same-sex attracted-relevant mental health services for young adults and will facilitate wellbeing outcomes for these individuals. This program will also be a significant development in the delivery of tailored interventions that target multiple types of mental health conditions simultaneously. © 2014 Abbott et al.
- Authors: Abbott, Jo-Anne , Klein, Britt , McLaren, Suzanne , Austin, David , Molloy, Mari , Meyer, Denny , McLeod, Bronte
- Date: 2014
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Trials Vol. 15, no. 1 (2014), p. 1-19
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Same-sex attracted young adults have been found to experience higher rates of mental health problems and greater difficulties in accessing specialist mental health care services compared to their heterosexual peers. Internet-based mental health interventions have the potential to be more engaging and accessible to young adults compared to those delivered face-to-face. However, they are rarely inclusive of lesbian women and gay men. Thus, the current study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an online mental health and wellbeing program, Out & Online (http://www.outandonline.org.au), in comparison to a wait-list control group, for reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms in same-sex attracted young adults aged between 18 and 25 years. Methods/Design: We are recruiting, through media and community organisations, 200 same-sex attracted young adults with anxiety and/or depressive symptoms and mild to moderate psychological distress (Kessler-10 score between 16 to 21). Participants will be randomly allocated to the intervention (the online program) or the wait-list control group based on a permuted blocked randomisation method to allow for stratification by gender. Participants in the intervention group will receive a tailored program for up to three types of mental health difficulties simultaneously. The primary outcome of anxiety and/or depressive symptoms, and secondary outcomes related to psychological distress, wellbeing and health behaviour will be measured at pre-intervention (0 week), post-intervention (8 weeks) and at a 3-month follow-up (20 weeks). Discussion: This online mental health and wellbeing program will be one of the first online interventions to be designed specifically to be relevant for same-sex attracted individuals. If the program is found to be effective it will improve access to specialist same-sex attracted-relevant mental health services for young adults and will facilitate wellbeing outcomes for these individuals. This program will also be a significant development in the delivery of tailored interventions that target multiple types of mental health conditions simultaneously. © 2014 Abbott et al.
Extending ICPC-2 PLUS terminology to develop a classification system specific for the study of chiropractic encounters
- Charity, Melanie, French, Simon, Forsdike, Kirsty, Britt, Helena, Polus, Bolus, Gunn, Jane
- Authors: Charity, Melanie , French, Simon , Forsdike, Kirsty , Britt, Helena , Polus, Bolus , Gunn, Jane
- Date: 2013
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Chiropractic and Manual Therapies Vol. 21, no. 1 (2013), p.1-10
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- Description: Background: Typically a large amount of information is collected during healthcare research and this information needs to be organised in a way that will make it manageable and to facilitate clear reporting. The Chiropractic Observation and Analysis STudy (COAST) was a cross sectional observational study that described the clinical practices of chiropractors in Victoria, Australia. To code chiropractic encounters COAST used the International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC-2) with the PLUS general practice clinical terminology to code chiropractic encounters. This paper describes the process by which a chiropractic-profession specific terminology was developed for use in research by expanding the current ICPC-2 PLUS system.Methods: The coder referred to the ICPC-2 PLUS system when coding chiropractor recorded encounter details (reasons for encounter, diagnoses/problems and processes of care). The coder used rules and conventions supplied by the Family Medicine Research Unit at the University of Sydney, the developers of the PLUS system. New chiropractic specific terms and codes were created when a relevant term was not available in ICPC-2 PLUS.Results: Information was collected from 52 chiropractors who documented 4,464 chiropractor-patient encounters. During the study, 6,225 reasons for encounter and 6,491 diagnoses/problems were documented, coded and analysed; 169 new chiropractic specific terms were added to the ICPC-2 PLUS terminology list. Most new terms were allocated to diagnoses/problems, with reasons for encounter generally well covered in the original ICPC 2 PLUS terminology: 3,074 of the 6,491 (47%) diagnoses/problems and 274 of the 6,225 (4%) reasons for encounter recorded during encounters were coded to a new term. Twenty nine new terms (17%) represented chiropractic processes of care.Conclusion: While existing ICPC-2 PLUS terminology could not fully represent chiropractic practice, adding terms specific to chiropractic enabled coding of a large number of chiropractic encounters at the desired level. Further, the new system attempted to record the diversity among chiropractic encounters while enabling generalisation for reporting where required. COAST is ongoing, and as such, any further encounters received from chiropractors will enable addition and refinement of ICPC-2 PLUS (Chiro). More research is needed into the diagnosis/problem descriptions used by chiropractors. © 2013 Charity et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
- Authors: Charity, Melanie , French, Simon , Forsdike, Kirsty , Britt, Helena , Polus, Bolus , Gunn, Jane
- Date: 2013
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Chiropractic and Manual Therapies Vol. 21, no. 1 (2013), p.1-10
- Full Text:
- Reviewed:
- Description: Background: Typically a large amount of information is collected during healthcare research and this information needs to be organised in a way that will make it manageable and to facilitate clear reporting. The Chiropractic Observation and Analysis STudy (COAST) was a cross sectional observational study that described the clinical practices of chiropractors in Victoria, Australia. To code chiropractic encounters COAST used the International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC-2) with the PLUS general practice clinical terminology to code chiropractic encounters. This paper describes the process by which a chiropractic-profession specific terminology was developed for use in research by expanding the current ICPC-2 PLUS system.Methods: The coder referred to the ICPC-2 PLUS system when coding chiropractor recorded encounter details (reasons for encounter, diagnoses/problems and processes of care). The coder used rules and conventions supplied by the Family Medicine Research Unit at the University of Sydney, the developers of the PLUS system. New chiropractic specific terms and codes were created when a relevant term was not available in ICPC-2 PLUS.Results: Information was collected from 52 chiropractors who documented 4,464 chiropractor-patient encounters. During the study, 6,225 reasons for encounter and 6,491 diagnoses/problems were documented, coded and analysed; 169 new chiropractic specific terms were added to the ICPC-2 PLUS terminology list. Most new terms were allocated to diagnoses/problems, with reasons for encounter generally well covered in the original ICPC 2 PLUS terminology: 3,074 of the 6,491 (47%) diagnoses/problems and 274 of the 6,225 (4%) reasons for encounter recorded during encounters were coded to a new term. Twenty nine new terms (17%) represented chiropractic processes of care.Conclusion: While existing ICPC-2 PLUS terminology could not fully represent chiropractic practice, adding terms specific to chiropractic enabled coding of a large number of chiropractic encounters at the desired level. Further, the new system attempted to record the diversity among chiropractic encounters while enabling generalisation for reporting where required. COAST is ongoing, and as such, any further encounters received from chiropractors will enable addition and refinement of ICPC-2 PLUS (Chiro). More research is needed into the diagnosis/problem descriptions used by chiropractors. © 2013 Charity et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.