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Research

Associations of serum short-chain fatty acids with circulating immune cells and serum biomarkers in patients with multiple sclerosis

Altered composition of gut bacteria and changes to the production of their bioactive metabolites, the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), have been implicated in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the immunomodulatory actions of SCFAs and intermediaries in their ability to influence MS pathogenesis are uncertain. In this study, levels of serum SCFAs were correlated with immune cell abundance and phenotype as well as with other relevant serum factors in blood samples taken at first presentation of Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS; an early form of MS) or MS and compared to healthy controls. There was a small but significant reduction in propionate levels in the serum of patients with CIS or MS compared with healthy controls.

Research

Validation of a novel theory of mind measurement tool: The social robot video task

Social communication difficulties in autism spectrum disorder have been associated with poor Theory of Mind (ToM), an ability to attribute mental states to others. Interventions using humanoid robots could improve ToM that may generalize to human-human interactions. Traditionally, ToM has been measured using the Firth-Happe Animations (FHA) task which depicts interactions between two animated triangles.

Research

ERS International Congress 2020 Virtual: highlights from the Allied Respiratory Professionals Assembly

This article provides an overview of outstanding sessions that were (co)organised by the Allied Respiratory Professionals Assembly during the European Respiratory Society International Congress 2020, which this year assumed a virtual format. The content of the sessions was mainly targeted at allied respiratory professionals, including respiratory function technologists and scientists, physiotherapists, and nurses.

Research

Maternal diet, depression and antidepressant treatment in pregnancy and across the first 12 months postpartum in the MPEWS pregnancy cohort study

There is increasing interest in the association between perinatal depression and diet including whether diet may have an impact on depressive symptoms and equally whether depression influences diet. Furthermore, whether pharmacological treatment of depression with antidepressant medication also may influence diet.

Research

Consumption of energy drinks is associated with depression, anxiety, and stress in young adult males: Evidence from a longitudinal cohort study

Energy drinks (EDs) claim to boost mental performance, however, few studies have examined the prospective effects of EDs on mental health. This study examined longitudinal associations between ED use and mental health symptoms in young adults aged 20 years over a 2-year period.

Research

A sport-based mental health intervention for children at risk of mental illness

We know that sport, when the appropriate environment is provided, can be an enriching experience for children – with many physical and mental health benefits.

Research

Parent and Child Engagement in Family-oriented Therapies for Childhood Obesity

This project will be conducted in conjunction with the Perth Childrens Hospital Health Weight Service (PCHHWS) and will involve three phases.

News & Events

Chinese immigrants in Australia at higher risk of allergies, research shows

Chinese immigrants who live in a Western environment like Australia have an increased risk of allergies, hay fever and asthma, new research led by Curtin University and The Kids Research Institute Australia has found.

News & Events

Launch of National Autism Guideline

Researchers from The Kids Research Institute Australia, working with the Autism CRC, have led the development of the National Guideline for the Assessment and Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Australia which was launched today.

News & Events

Making FASD History in the Pilbara: celebrating International FASD Awareness Day

To mark International FASD Awareness Day, The Kids will launch a series of health promotion videos that feature local Aboriginal community members.