Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Pax3 Expression, Protein Modifications And Downstream Target Gene Profiling In Melanocytes And Melanoma Cells, Danielle Bartlett

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

PAX3 is a transcription factor. It plays a major role in the development of melanocytes in the embryo. As a result of alternative splicing, the gene gives rise to eight different transcripts which encode proteins that have differing structures and are therefore likely to activate different downstream target genes. The presence of post-translational modifications has also been shown to alter the functions of the proteins.

PAX3 regulates the maintenance of undifferentiated melanoblasts and mediates pathways involved in proliferation, migration and survival. It has been shown to be expressed in melanoblasts, adult melanocytes, naevi and in most melanoma cells. This implies …

Factors Influencing The Incidence Rates Of Injuries And Accidents Among Seafarers And Rig Workers Providing Support To The Wa Offshore Oil And Gas Industry, Tony Martinovich

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

The aim of this study was to identify, discuss and make recommendations regarding causal factors associated with injuries and accidents among seafarers and rig workers providing support to the WA offshore oil and gas industry. These incidents cause significant personal and economic burdens for employees, employers and the community in general.

A sample of 484 participants were recruited from a workforce of 9800 employees (approximately 5%). Participants were stratified into 2 cohorts; those who had suffered injury (286 – study group) and those who had not (198 - controls).

Data from the study group were stratified into oilrig workers and …

The Development And Evaluation Of A Testing Protocol To Assess Upper Body Pressing Strength Qualities In High Performance Athletes, Kieran Young

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability of an isometric force assessment (isometric bench press) across 4 standardised angles and an isoinertial force and velocity assessment (ballistic bench throw) utilising a relative load based on a percentage of one repetition maximum (1RM) in the bench press; and to evaluate whether the use of the dynamic strength deficit (DSD) ratio can guide training and detect changes induced by training over a 5 week period.

METHODS: Twenty four elite male athletes (age = 19.9 ± 2.7yrs; mass = 79.1 ± 13.0kg) performed the isometric bench press and a …

Framing Anorexia : A Play Script And Multidimensional Investigation Of Anorexia : A Play And Critical Essay, Louise Helfgott

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

This thesis explores anorexia nervosa in young people. It comprises two components: a play script, "Frames", about 16-year-old Elizabeth who is combating the disorder, her troubled friend Ben, and their families, and a critical essay that reviews qualitative and quantitative literature about anorexia and contextualises the play in relation to selected narratives, plays and films. In my field research, I interviewed a number of professionals working in the field of anorexia and the essay also discusses their views and insights.

Few plays deal with anorexia in an in-depth manner to explore the onset and development of the illness. "Frames" addresses …

Exploring Predictors Of Sport Commitment In Coaches, Erin Bormann

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

The Sport Commitment Model (SCM) has been used to gain insight about the factors that influence people’s decision to continue participation in sport. Majority of the studies that are grounded in the SCM have been conducted with athletes. To date, few studies have examined sport commitment of coaches however, these did not assess two commitment dimensions per se (functional or “want to” and obligatory or “have to” commitment to sport), rather each has measured certain predictor variables and inferred commitment dimensions based on clustering of predictors [i.e. 13]. This study had one main purpose, to examine the SCM amongst coaches. …

Improving Evaluations Of Anti-Bullying Programs In Schools, Thérèse Shaw

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

Bullying at school is associated with negative social, psychological and academic outcomes for both the victimised student and the perpetrator. As a consequence, national strategies to address bullying have been implemented in numerous countries, and education sectors and schools have increasingly directed resources to the problem. To ensure resources are allocated to programs and strategies that will prevent and successfully respond to bullying in schools, and therefore prevent harm to students, evidence of program effectiveness is required. Evaluations of anti-bullying programs in schools have had mixed results and there is a lack of robust evidence as to their impact. Several …

The Influence Of External Loading And Speed Of Movement On Muscle-Tendon Unit Behaviour And Its Implications For Training, Jacob Earp

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

In this thesis great emphasis has been placed on vastus lateralis (VL) muscle-tendon unit (MTU) structure, behaviour/movement and adaptation. Of particular interest was how external loading and movement speed influence these variables. In the first study (Chapter 3) we developed a new methodology by which electromyography (EMG) could be normalised during large range of motion knee extensions. This methodology was then used as part of a larger study, which investigated how external loading influenced the interaction of muscle and tendon (MTU behaviour) during stretch shortening cycle isoinertial knee extensions, and how muscle activity and intrinsic tendon force (Ft) influenced MTU …

Characterising The Deformation Behaviour Of Human Tooth Enamel At The Microscale, Simona O'Brien

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

Enamel plays an important role in tooth function. Optimal combinations of composition and structure endow enamel with unique mechanical properties that remain largely unexplored. Specifically, more detailed understanding of the loadbearing ability of enamel is needed to mimic it synthetically and to design next generation biocomposite materials. This research investigates the variables that influence deformation behaviour of tooth enamel in relation to its hierarchical structure. Initially, a new method was developed for preparing flat, finely polished tooth samples that were maintained in their normal hydrated state for nanoindentation testing. In contrast to conventional methods, which commonly utilise either inappropriate or …

Discovery Of New Biomarkers Of Mild Cognitive Impairment And Alzheimer's Disease Risk In Buccal Cells Using Laser Scanning Cytometry, Maxime Francois

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

Previous studies have shown that mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may reflect the early stages of more pronounced neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In clinical practice, patients with AD are not usually identified until the disease has progressed to a stage when primary prevention is no longer possible. Therefore there is a need for a minimally invasive and inexpensive diagnostic to identify those who exhibit cellular pathology indicative of MCI and AD risk so that they can be prioritised for primary prevention. Human buccal cells are accessible in a minimally invasive manner, and exhibit cytological and nuclear morphologies that …

Biomarkers Of Disease : Concentrations In The Serum Of Women During Natural And Stimulated Ovarian Cycles And During Early Pregnancy, Melissa Stemp

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

Molecular biomarkers are chemical signatures that all cell types possess. They are used in medicine to evaluate both normal biological events and pathogenic processes. A series of biomarkers associated with cancer of the breast, ovaries and other parts of the female reproductive tract and the monitoring of pregnancy were measured in disease‐free women. The biomarkers measured were prostate specific antigen (PSA), CA125, CA15‐3, CA72‐4, and pregnancy associated plasma protein‐a (PAPP‐A). The patterns of change during natural and stimulated ovarian cycles and early pregnancy were investigated to determine if these biomarkers could reflect normal events relating to ovulation and implantation/placentation. In …

Protocol For A Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating The Effect Of Physical Activity On Delaying The Progression Of White Matter Changes On Mri In Older Adults With Memory Complaints And Mild Cognitive Impairment: The Aibl Active Trial, E V Cyarto, N T Lautenschlager, P M Desmond, D Ames, C Szoeke, O Salvado, Matthew Sharman, Kathryn A Ellis, P M Phal, C L Masters, C C Rowe, Ralph Martins, Kay L Cox

Research outputs 2012

Background: Older adults free of dementia but with subjective memory complaints (SMC) or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are considered at increased risk of cognitive decline. Vascular risk factors (VRF), including hypertension, heart disease, smoking, hypercholesterolemia and lack of physical activity (PA) have been identified as modifiable risk factors contributing to cognitive decline, and white matter hyperintensities (WMH) are associated with VRF, SMC and cognitive impairment. Findings from a growing number of clinical trials with older adults are providing strong evidence for the benefits of physical activity for maintaining cognitive function, but few studies are investigating these benefits in high-risk populations. …

Community Participation Group Interventions For Children And Adolescents With Neurodevelopmental Disabilities : A Systematic Review ; And, Community Participation For Girls And Women Living With Rett Syndrome, Jaimi Andrews

Theses : Honours

Community participation group interventions for children and adolescents with neurodevelopment disabilities : A systematic review

Objective: To describe the effectiveness of community integration interventions on community participation, self-esteem and quality of life for children and adolescents with a neurodevelopment intellectual disability.

Method: Electronic searches of five databases and manual searches of reference lists were conducted. Community integration interventions which targeted friendship development, recreation participation, quality of life and self-esteem were included.

Results: Thirteen studies were included in this review. A variety of study designs and interventions were used. Following interventions, all but one study reported significantly increased …

The Influence Of Sample Volume Applied To The Makler Sperm Counting Chamber Upon The Measured Concentration Of Latex Beads: A Multi-Centre Study, Melanie Walls, Emily Zuvela, Cheryl Ayres, Deborah Sherrin, Asma Chhotani, Liz Butler, Kelli Peirce, Jenny Krapez, Renae Parker, Cherise Mooy, Patrick Mohan, Sally Catt, Matthew Wiltshire, Hassan W. Bakos, Mary Whyte, Phillip Matson

Research outputs 2012

Objective: To undertake a multi-centre study to maximize the number of Makler chambers used.

Methods: A total of 15 laboratories participated with 31 Makler chambers. A suspension of latex beads was prepared to a concentration of 20 millions per milliliter, and 0.5 mL aliquots distributed to each participating laboratory. They measured the concentration on their Makler chamber(s) used for routine semen analysis by adding 3, 4, 5, 7 and 10 μL volumes of bead suspension to the chamber.

Results: There was no difference in within-chamber analysis of the bead concentration according to the volume of bead suspension …

Moving Physical Activity Beyond The School Classroom: A Social-Ecological Insight For Teachers Of The Facilitators And Barriers To Students' Non-Curricular Physical Activity, Brendon Hyndman, Amanda Telford, Caroline F. Finch, Amanda C. Benson

Australian Journal of Teacher Education

Non-curricular avenues such as active play during school breaks have been established as a major source for children’s physical and cognitive development, yet there is little information for teachers on the influences affecting primary and secondary school students’ non-curricular physical activity. During this study focus groups and drawing were used to explore the broader influences on primary (n=47) and secondary (n=29) school students’ physical activity behaviour beyond the classroom. Barriers and facilitators to children’s physical activity were categorised using a multi-level social-ecological framework incorporating intrapersonal, interpersonal, physical environment and policy factors. Based on the drawings, comparisons between students’ existing play …

Community Psychology In Australia, Ken Robinson Dr, Lynne Cohen, Julie Dean, Heather Gridley, Rebecca Hogea, Emma Sampson, Anne Sibbel, Colleen Turner

ECU Research Week

No abstract provided.

Letter And Number Reversals – Identifying The Problem, Janet Richmond

ECU Posters

Letter and number orientation affects legibility

Healthway Research Program, Laura Drummy

ECU Research Week

No abstract provided.

Newborns With Feeding Issues: Parental Perceptions Of The Hospital Discharge, Transition Home And The Role Of Speech Pathology, Katie Louise Ilich

Theses : Honours

This study explored the perceptions of discharge from hospital and the transition home for mothers of newborns with feeding issues. To gain an understanding of their experiences, mothers were interviewed twice, once at discharge and once up to a month later. Participants had a strong desire for their babies to be discharged from hospital, but felt anxious and underprepared. Once home, more questions typically arose. Mothers found this a highly stressful and emotional experience, especially for those without consistent speech pathology involvement. Mothers valued being involved in the decision-making process, and found this an effective coping mechanism. The value of …

The Impact Of Powered Mobility Devices On Occupational Performance : A Systematic Review ; And, The Experience Of Being A Motorised Mobility Scooter User, Ryan Fomiatti

Theses : Honours

The impact of powered mobility devices on occupational performance: A systematic review

Purpose: To systematically review the impact powered mobility devices have on engagement in independent occupations for adults with acquired mobility limitations. Method: The following databases were searched electronically: CINAHL Plus, Medline, PsychInfo, OT Seeker, Joanna Briggs Institute and Physiotherapy Evidence Database. The search terms used a combination of words to encompass all terms which are used for powered mobility. Studies were included if they evaluated adults’ use of a motorised mobility device, and if individuals used a powered mobility device due to acquired mobility limitation. Results: Eleven studies …

Constraint Induced Aphasia Therapy In The Very Early Phase Of Recovery Following Stroke, Sarah D'Souza

Theses : Honours

Background and purpose: Research suggests communication outcomes following stroke may be greater when treatment is administered in the acute phase of recovery. In addition, treatment outcomes are improved when therapy is provided at a greater intensity. Constraint Induced Aphasia Therapy (CIAT) has addressed the issue of treatment intensity by delivering therapy for three hours per weekday for two weeks, but its effectiveness has largely been investigated in the chronic phase of recovery. Treatment outcomes have typically been assessed on standardised tests and few studies have used connected speech and discourse measures to assess change. This research investigated daily intervention in …

Biochemical Markers As Evidence Of The Effects Of Environmental Enrichment On Physiological Processes In Huntington’S Disease Patients, Zarghona Ahmadzai Khan

Theses : Honours

Abstract not available.

Predictors Of Adolescents Attitudes Towards Hepatitis C, Magdalena Sotiroski

School of Psychology and Social Science Presentations

Hepatitis C is referred to as a blood borne virus and transmission is possible when there is blood to bloodcontact. In Australia one person is exposed to hepatitis C every hour of every day. Attempts to increase knowledge and change attitudes towards hepatitis C in the community have been limited, particularly among target groups such as young people. It seems the majority of hepatitis C education and prevention efforts have focused on the provision of information (cognitions) to increase awareness and reduce engagement in risk behaviours (Brown, Perlmutter & McDermott, 2000; Munoz-Plaza, Strauss, Astone, Jarlais & Hagan, 2004). In contrast, …

Knowledge Of The Uv Index Within Western Australia, David Mercovich

Theses : Honours

Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world and despite the dedicated efforts of preventative campaigns since 1981; this number has increased over the past ten years (Carter & Donovan, 2007). With most skin cancer being attributed to Ultra violet radiation there is a pressing need for proper education, health promotion and preventative means. Previous Western Australian skin UV Index research has yielded findings of moderate awareness. However, there is the association between skin cancer prevalence and the UV Index but a lack of knowledge and application of the UV Index as a means of preventative measures …

Aphasia Incidence And Intervention In The Acute Hospital Setting, Dominique Lidia Ferreira

Theses : Honours

Background: Current research highlights the significance of providing early and intensive aphasia therapy to maximise neural plasticity and enhance communication gains. Acute speech pathology service delivery in Australia does not consistently meet best practice standards recommended by the National Stroke Foundation. Aims: This study aimed to: i) investigate the incidence of post-stroke aphasia in the acute setting; ii) determine the referral rate to speech pathology for patients with aphasia; iii) investigate the amount of language therapy provided to people with aphasia and iv) explore the relative proportion of aphasia service delivery within the overall caseload management of speech pathologists. Method …

Summary Of Research In Speech Pathology, Deborah Hersh

ECU Research Week

No abstract provided.

Defining Speech And Language Fluency Profiles Before And After The Onset Of Stuttering: Preliminary Findings, Charn Nang

ECU Research Week

No abstract provided.

Effects Of Two Contrast Training Programs On Jump Performance In Rugby Union Players During A Competition Phase, C K Argus, N D Gill, J W Keogh, Michael Mcguigan, W G Hopkins

Research outputs 2012

Purpose: There is little literature comparing contrast training programs typically performed by team-sport athletes within a competitive phase. We compared the effects of two contrast training programs on a range of measures in high-level rugby union players during the competition season. Methods: The programs consisted of a higher volume-load (strength-power) or lower volume-load (speed-power) resistance training; each included a tapering of loading (higher force early in the week, higher velocity later in the week) and was performed twice a week for 4 wk. Eighteen players were assessed for peak power during a bodyweight countermovement jump (BWCMJ), bodyweight squat jump (BWSJ), …

Multiple Effects Of Physical Activity On Molecular And Cognitive Signs Of Brain Aging: Can Exercise Slow Neurodegeneration And Delay Alzheimer's Disease?, Belinda Brown, J J Peiffer, Ralph Martins

Research outputs 2012

Western countries are experiencing aging populations and increased longevity; thus, the incidence of dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) in these countries is projected to soar. In the absence of a therapeutic drug, non-pharmacological preventative approaches are being investigated. One of these approaches is regular participation in physical activity or exercise. This paper reviews studies that have explored the relationship between physical activity and cognitive function, cognitive decline, AD/dementia risk and AD-associated biomarkers and processes. There is now strong evidence that links regular physical activity or exercise to higher cognitive function, decreased cognitive decline and reduced risk of AD or dementia. …

Altered Expression Of Alzheimer's Disease-Related Proteins In Male Hypogonadal Mice, Eleanor S. Drummond, Ralph Martins, D J Handelsman, A R Harvey

Research outputs 2012

Age-related depletion of estrogens and androgens is associated with an increase in Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain pathology and diminished cognitive function. Here we investigated AD-associated molecular and cellular changes in brains of aged hypogonadal (hpg) male and female mice. hpg Mice have a spontaneous, inactivating genetic mutation in the GnRH gene resulting in lifelong deficiency of gonadotropins and gonadal sex hormones. Western blot analysis revealed low levels of amyloid precursor protein and high levels of presenilin 1, amyloid precursor protein C-terminal fragment, and β-amyloid 42 in brains of aged male, but not female, hpg mice. Changes were confined to the …

Clinical And Biomarker Changes In Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer's Disease, R J Bateman, C Xiong, T L Benzinger, A M Fagan, A Goate, N C Fox, D S Marcus, N J Cairns, X Xie, T M Blazey, D M Holtzman, A Santacruz, V Buckles, A Oliver, K Moulder, P M Aisen, B Ghetti, W M Klunk, E Mcdade, Ralph Martins, C M Masters, R Mayeux, J M Ringman, M M Rossor, P M Schofield, R M Sperling, S Salloway, J M Morris

Research outputs 2012

Background: The order and magnitude of pathologic processes in Alzheimer's disease are not well understood, partly because the disease develops over many years. Autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease has a predictable age at onset and provides an opportunity to determine the sequence and magnitude of pathologic changes that culminate in symptomatic disease.

Methods: In this prospective, longitudinal study, we analyzed data from 128 participants who underwent baseline clinical and cognitive assessments, brain imaging, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood tests. We used the participant's age at baseline assessment and the parent's age at the onset of symptoms of Alzheimer's disease to …