Prefix
Ist NI
First
Name
1st NI
Surname
Host Institution
Dr
James
Bartley
Associate Francis
Professor
Dr
Mark
Professor Sally
City
Proposal
Type
Tel
Email
Title
Term Approved Lay Summary
Budget
Centre for Clinical Auckland
Research and
Effective Practice
.Feasibility
Study
(09) 638 jbartley@i Vitamin D
4175
hug.co.nz supplementation in
bronchiectasis
Bloomfield
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Programme (09) 923 f.bloomfiel Perinatal care and
Extension
6107
d@auckla its long-term
nd.ac.nz
consequences
Bolland
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Project
(09) 373 m.bolland Zoledronic acid and
7599 x @aucklan fracture prevention
83004 d.ac.nz
in early
postmenopausal
women
48 1,159,604 Fractures are a major health problem occurring in >50 per cent of older women. Low bone density is
a strong risk factor for fracture, but 80 per cent of fractures occur in women with only mild
reduction in bone density. We plan to investigate whether zoledronate, an effective osteoporosis
treatment, can be given very infrequently by injection to prevent bone loss and spinal fractures in
women with normal or only mildly low bone density. We will undertake a 10 year clinical trial in
early post-menopausal women with normal or mildly low bone density. Zoledronate or an inactive
agent (placebo) will be administered every five years. The main outcomes are occurrence of new
spinal fractures and changes in bone density. If the treatment is effective, the study will offer a new,
more convenient approach to preventing fractures, and potentially a much higher proportion of
fractures could be avoided than with current strategies.
Casswell
Massey University Auckland
.Project
(09) 366 S.Casswell Alcohol Policy
6136
@massey. Interventions in
ac.nz
New Zealand
(APINZ)
36 1,197,020 Alcohol is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in New Zealand with youth disproportionally
affected. Imminent change to our alcohol policy environment has created the opportunity for this
research. The Alcohol Policy Interventions in New Zealand (APINZ) study will evaluate changes in
alcohol policy on drinking behaviour and policy related mediating variables. It uses a longitudinal
design, interviewing a sample of the general population and of young people. By examining impacts
of policy change on variables such as where and when alcohol is purchased and consumed and who
supplies underage young people we will better understand the behavioural, social and
environmental processes that underpin health in relation to alcohol use. APINZ is part of an
international project which will allow comparisons to be made with other countries. It will provide
new knowledge about impacts of alcohol policy change and contribute to national and international
efforts to reduce alcohol-related harm.
12
149,725 Bronchiectasis is a chronic, debilitating disease characterised by repeated respiratory infections.
Evidence-based treatments are urgently needed. Vitamin D regulates the immune system and
induces the secretion of chemicals that are capable of killing microorganisms. Vitamin D
supplementation offers a potentially simple, safe and cost-effective treatment option for the
prevention of infective exacerbations in patients with bronchiectasis. We plan to undertake a large
randomised controlled trial of vitamin D supplementation. Several feasibility issues need to be
assessed before this clinical trial can be undertaken. The aim of this feasibility study is to determine
the range of serum vitamin D levels in patients with bronchiectasis, which are expected to be low,
and assess whether vitamin D treatment will increase vitamin D levels adequately. The benefits of
vitamin D supplementation are expected to include fewer exacerbations, improved quality of life,
improved exercise capacity and lung function, and reduced acute healthcare utilisation and costs.
36 3,622,591 Childhood mortality and morbidity are greatest in the perinatal period. Babies most at risk are
those born preterm or with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), numbering over 8,000 per
annum in New Zealand. Both the predisposing condition and the postnatal experiences of these
babies, including nutrition, growth and the management of common complications, have life-long
consequences for health and well-being. Although most of these babies will survive with modern
perinatal care, many of the problems they face do not have established treatments, or the treatment
is not based on robust evidence. There is, thus, substantial opportunity for evidence-based care to
improve outcomes, both in the perinatal period and for lifelong health, whilst also reducing costs.
Our aim in this programme of research is to seize this opportunity to advance the evidence base for
best practice in perinatal care.
Dr
Alys
Clark
The University of
Auckland
Dr
Stuart
Dalziel
Dr
Louise
Professor John
Auckland
.Emerging (09) 363 alys.clark Computing
Researcher 599
@aucklan abnormalities in
First Grant
d.ac.nz
chest-xray
36
Auckland District Auckland
Health Board
.Project
36 1,198,986 Convulsive Status Epilepticus (CSE) is the most common childhood neurological emergency. CSE is
managed with anticonvulsants in a step-wise approach until seizures stop. While some management
strategies for CSE are well supported by evidence, e.g. initial benzodiazepines, subsequent strategies
are based on consensus not evidence. Phenytoin, the traditional second line agent for CSE has a high
failure rate, causes adverse events and must be administered slowly. Levetiracetam, a newer
anticonvulsant, has a favourable adverse events profile, can be administered quickly and has good
efficacy for various seizure types. We propose to undertake a randomised controlled trial of second
line anticonvulsants for CSE in children (phenytoin vs. levetiracetam). This multi-centre study will
be a world first and have a profound impact on the management of CSE in children in New Zealand
and worldwide, in either confirming the current second line medication used or recommending a
newer second line medication.
Foley
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Emerging (09) 373 l.foley@ctr Profiling and
Researcher 7599
u.auckland modifying physical
First Grant
.ac.nz
activity and
sedentary
behaviour: New
paradigm
36
Fraser
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Programme (09) 923 jd.fraser@ Microbial virulence
Extension
6036
auckland.a and pathogenesis
c.nz
36 4,935,490 Infectious disease remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality world-wide. Highly
pathogenic strains of antibiotic resistant bacteria pose a serious threat to world health. In New
Zealand, Māori and Pacific Island peoples, the young and elderly continue to be over-represented in
the levels of morbidity and mortality due to common infections. The advent of whole organism
genomics provides unprecedented access to the inner workings of microbes, and offers new
opportunity to understand the interactions between host and microbe, yielding discoveries that will
translate to new or improved treatments.
This programme focuses on understanding the mechanisms of virulence and persistence of three
important human pathogens - Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes and Mycobacterium
tuberculosis and aims to develop protective drugs and vaccines.
021 869 sdalziel@a Randomised Control
068
dhb.govt.n Trial (RCT) of
z
levetiracetam vs.
phenytoin for status
epilepticus in
children
96,000 Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung disease with high prevalence in New Zealand compared with other
developed nations. It is important to diagnose bronchiectasis early to prevent unneccessary disease
progression. Bronchiectasis often eventuates after multilple lung infections for which patients have
undergone chest xrays (CXRs), which are 2D and low resolution. CXRs are easy to obtain and require
low radiation doses. However, high resolution computed tomography (HRCT), which provides 3D
reconstructions of lung tissue is required for diagnosis. We propose a reconcilliation of HRCT and
CXR to identify the digital features of bronchiectasis in CXR. HRCT images from patients with
confirmed bronchiectasis will be projected into 2D space and digital features of CXR corresponding
to known abnormalities identified. Development of digital image analysis to identify abnormalities
in CXR will benefit health by improving the chances of early detection of diseases like
bronchiectasis, whilst minimising the use of high radiation imaging.
149,998 Adults in developed countries spend most of their time sitting, and very little time doing physical
activity. Low physical activity and high levels of sitting are both independently associated with poor
health. These behaviours may be viewed together as an 'activity profile'. Louise Foley is an
emerging researcher based at the University of Auckland. She aims to understand the activity
profile in a New Zealand context, particularly within the workplace, and develop new technologies
to assess these behaviours. She will then use these technologies to develop a fully automated
intervention that seamlessly monitors behaviour and provides feedback appropriate to the
individual's activity profile via mobile phone and email. The intervention will be pilot tested to give
a preliminary indication of the effects on health outcomes. Improving both sitting and physical
activity behaviours simultaneously could potentially have greater positive impact on health than
targeting either behaviour in isolation.
Professor Alistair
Gunn
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Programme (09) 373 aj.gunn@a Pathogenesis,
7599 x uckland.ac detection and
86763 .nz
treatment of
perinatal brain
injury
60 4,835,194 Perinatal brain injury now contributes approximately half of all cerebral palsy cases. The team
played a key role in developing brain cooling, now the first established therapy for injury after low
oxygen levels at term. However, hypothermia is only partially protective, is effective only in a
limited window of time, and may not be suitable for preterm infants. Using fetal sheep models we
will determine the impact of several standard treatments on the preterm brain, evaluate promising
new interventions to protect the brain after injury due to low oxygen, including a peptide that can
block spread of brain injury, and then test ways of restoring long-term brain growth. Finally, we will
use new EEG measures of brain injury developed in our fetal sheep models in a clinical study to test
whether we can rapidly identify after birth premature babies who may benefit from our new
treatments.
Dr
Ralph
Maddison
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Feasibility
Study
(09) 923 r.maddiso Feasibility of an
84767 [email protected] exercise programme
ckland.ac. to reduce smoking
nz
during pregnancy
among Māori
12
149,985 Smoking during pregnancy is harmful for the mother, the unborn child, and their whanau, with high
rates among Māori women. Establishing ways to reduce smoking rates in pregnancy is essential.
Exercise has been proposed as a strategy to help pregnant smokers to quit. Before conducting a
randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of such an approach, key feasibility issues
need to be addressed. We will conduct focus groups with Māori pregnant women, and key
stakeholder interviews, to determine their opinions on an exercise programme to aid smoking
cessation for Māori pregnant women. We will also determine the type and intensity of exercise that
is most appropriate, as well as how best to recruit participants. The proposed research will have a
direct impact on the health of Māori women and their children, and lead to reduced prevalence of
smoking during pregnancy, reducing associated health risks for both mother and child.
Dr
Phillipa
Malpas
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Emerging (09) 923 p.malpas Medical practices
Researcher 3775
@aucklan that hasten death:
First Grant
d.ac.nz
ethical implications
for decision-making
36
109,407 Medical practices that hasten death (MPHD) are illegal in New Zealand yet it is clear that a number
of General Practitioners have assisted their desperately ill patients to die. More recently the public
response to a number of high profile cases suggests that many people support MPHD in certain
circumstances.
The aim of this research is to explore the reasons New Zealanders have for either supporting or
opposing such practices, and to understand the ethical significance of this reasoning for both
personal and professional decision-making at the end of life. We will use a variety of approaches
(questionnaire and face to face interviews) across a range of subject groups (including Maori) to
address this aim.
This research will provide greater clarity in understanding what is important to people regarding
medicine's role in practices that hasten death at the end of life, and assist health professionals in
addressing end of life concerns.
Dr
Colin
McArthur
Auckland District Auckland
Health Board
.Project
(09) 307 colinm@a Randomised trial of
2892
dhb.govt.n hydrocortisone in
z
critically ill patients
with septic shock
48
773,854 Severe infection can cause circulatory failure and reduced tissue perfusion; this is known as 'septic
shock'. This complication of infection is a major cause of mortality worldwide, with a case fatality
rate in developed countries of 25 - 30 per cent. Treatment with steroids (cortisone-like medicines)
can reduce the inflammation induced by infection and improve the circulation, but it remains
uncertain if their use improves survival overall as they carry a risk of serious complications in the
critically ill. This is a placebo-controlled study of low-dose hydrocortisone in critically ill patients to
determine if this treatment improves survival and quality of life up to six months after initial illness.
If it is effective, treatment of severe infection for thousands of patient worldwide will be improved.
Dr
Colin
McArthur
Auckland District Auckland
Health Board
.Project
(09) 307 colinm@a Standard issue
2892
dhb.govt.n transfusion versus
z
fresher red blood
cell use in intensive
care
36
775,723 Red blood cell transfusion is a common and potentially life-saving treatment in intensive care units.
However, blood stored for a prolonged time deteriorates and previous studies have suggested
transfusing older blood may worsen outcome in critically ill patients. This study will randomly
assign 5,000 patients in intensive care in Australia and New Zealand requiring transfusion to receive
either the freshest available blood or current standard issue older blood to determine if the age of
blood transfused affects the duration of support treatment required for failure of lungs, circulation
and kidneys, new infections, and survival after 3 months. If there are such adverse effects of older
blood, then the national standards for the age of blood to be provided for critically ill patients will be
revised.
Dr
Shay
McGuinness Auckland District Auckland
Health Board
.Project
(09) 307 ShayMc@a Permissive
4949
dhb.govt.n hypercapnia,
z
alveolar recruitment
and limited airway
pressure in Acute
Respiratory Distress
Syndrome (ARDS)
36
320,961 Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a condition where the lungs have become injured
and do not work as they normally do to provide oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from the body.
This leads to reduced oxygen in the blood. Patients with ARDS are admitted to the intensive care
unit (ICU) and require help with their breathing by way of a mechanical ventilator (breathing
machine). ARDS can cause damage to other organs and death.
(09) 373 m.mckeag Contribution of
7599
e@aucklan OCTN1 to toxicity
d.ac.nz
from oxaliplatinbased cancer
therapy
36 1,180,897 Cancer treatment with the platinum drug oxaliplatin has contributed greatly to improving patient
outcomes from large bowel cancer, which is diagnosed in 3,000 New Zealanders annually. Nerve
damage is the major side-effect of oxaliplatin, which interferes with the delivery of this important
treatment and quality-of-life long after its completion. We recently found that a cell membrane
protein called OCTN1 is involved in the processes whereby nerve cells accumulate high levels of
platinum during treatment with oxaliplatin. We aim to definitively establish the critical role of
OCTN1 in the development of nerve damage from oxaliplatin, and its potential as a target for
developing treatments for limiting this side-effect. To do so, we plan studies of mice and cells, in
which the OCTN1 gene is modified, in parallel with investigating OCTN1 function in cancer patients
undergoing oxaliplatin chemotherapy. This research will improve understanding and clinical
management of nerve damage from cancer chemotherapy.
Auckland
Associate Mark
Professor
McKeage
The University of
Auckland
Dr
Clarie
McLintock
Auckland District Auckland
Health Board
.Emerging (09) 367 claire.mcli A national
Researcher 0000
ntock@ad population-based
First Grant
hb.govt.nz study of Rheumatic
Heart Disease in
pregnancy
30
Dr
Patricia
Metcalf
The University of
Auckland
.Project
24
Auckland
.Project
Recently a ventilator strategy using an occasional sustained deep breath (the PHARLAP strategy)
has been shown, in a small study, to have some benefits compared to current best recommended
care. The PHARLAP strategy increased blood oxygen levels and reduced markers of inflammation in
the body. A larger study of 340 patients in multiple ICUs across New Zealand and Australia will be
undertaken aimed at decreasing the number of days on mechanical ventilation required by these
patients.
(09) 373 p.metcalf Determining the
7599
@aucklan health-related
d.ac.nz
impact of
dysglycaemia in a
local population
148,911 Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD) is the most serious complication of Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF)
and is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in New Zealand. Rates of ARF in Māori and
Pacific Island peoples are among the highest in the world with Māori 22 times more likely and
Pacific Island peoples 75 times more likely than New Zealand Europeans to have RHD. The
increased cardiac work in pregnancy means that pregnant women with RHD are at greater risk of
developing severe maternal, and therefore fetal, complications. While the rate of ARF is reported in
New Zealand, the rates and outcomes in pregnant women in New Zealand is unknown. This
prospective descriptive study will identify the prevalence, geographic distribution, severity and
management of RHD in pregnancy throughout New Zealand. The evidence base will be used to
identify opportunities for improving clinical care, and maternal and perinatal outcomes for these
women.
385,630 Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), particularly heart attacks and strokes, are common preventable
causes of death and hospitalisation in people with diabetes. Diabetes and dysglycaemia (abnormal
blood glucose levels) are significant and increasing problems in New Zealand. There are substantial
disparities in the prevalence of diabetes and dysglycaemia by ethnicity and many unanswered
questions about the relationship between diabetes, dysglycaemia and CVD. We propose generating
the world's largest single cohort study examining this relationship. The study aims are to determine:
the measures of glycaemia most strongly related to risk of CVD; the most appropriate diagnostic
criteria for dysglycaemia and diabetes in relation to CVD risk in different New Zealand populations;
and to inform the development of predictive models for targeting CVD risk management in diabetes.
Dr
Vili
Nosa
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Emerging l
Researcher
First Grant
Dr
Frederik
Pruijn
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Project
Reid
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Programme (09) 373 i.reid@auc Mechanisms and
Extension
7599 x kland.ac.n management of
86259 z
musculoskeletal
disease
Professor Ian
v.nosa@au Pacific Mens Health
ckland.ac. and Well Being: The
nz
case of Niue and the
Cook Islands
(09) 923 f.pruijn@a Molecular and
6939
uckland.ac hypoxia biomarkers
.nz
of sensitivity to new
nitroCBI anticancer
drugs
Associate Gordon
Professor
Rewcastle
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Project
(09) 923 g.rewcastl Targeted cancer
6147
e@aucklan drugs: A new class of
d.ac.nz
selective inhibitors
of PI3 kinase
Professor Keith
Rome
AUT University
Auckland
.Feasibility
Study
(09) 921 krome@au Footwear for
9999
t.ac.nz
patients with gout: A
feasibility study
36
150,000 There are many Pacific people in New Zealand, contributing to our communities, lifestyles and
economy. But Pacific people often suffer inequalities in health and wellbeing and we don't always
know why. Pacific men in particular have poorer health and higher rates of mortality and disability
than non Pacific people and compared to Pacific women. This is apparent in New Zealand and in
Pacific Islands countries. Using Niue and the Cook Islands as case studies, this research will explore
practical ways to improve Pacific men's health and wellbeing. Using interviews and health statistics,
the study will identify the health issues and service access problems that Niuean and Cook Islands
men face in New Zealand and their home countries. This will help develop policies and programmes
to improve health and wellbeing for Pacific men in New Zealand and the Pacific, making our
communities stronger and healthier and making good use of resources.
36 1,193,430 Tumours often have areas of low oxygen concentration (hypoxia), which cause the tumours to
become more aggressive and harder to treat by standard therapy, resulting in poorer outcomes for
patients. We have developed a novel class of drugs that specifically target these hypoxic zones in
tumours. In this study we will identify an optimised compound of this class for clinical development.
Furthermore, in order to select patients who will benefit most from the drug we must understand
the factors (in addition to hypoxia) that determine the sensitivity of individual tumours. We will
identify genes whose expression correlates with drug sensitivity in human cancer cell lines. The
ultimate goal is to be able to profile patients for sensitivity in future clinical trials. Our team includes
people highly experienced in cancer pharmacology, design and synthesis of anticancer drugs, and
computer-assisted analysis of gene expression in cancer.
36 5,241,424 This programme addresses important issues in musculoskeletal health and biology in three themes.
Relationships Between Fat and Bone
Adiposity is one of the most important determinants of skeletal strength, so a mechanistic
understanding of this relationship will inform strategies to reduce osteoporosis
Osteoporosis Studies
Our major study in osteoporosis management is a trial of 2,000 women with osteopenia
(moderately reduced bone density) who are randomised to infusions of the bisphosphonate,
zoledronate, or placebo at 18-month intervals
36 1,199,179 Genetic mutations in certain genes (oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes) are major drivers in
the development and progression of cancer. More than 30 per cent of tumours contain mutations in
genes that result in the activation of the PI 3-kinase pathway in cells. This allows these cells to grow
uncontrollably and form tumours. Many groups around the world, including our own, are involved
in finding drugs to block this particular pathway. A drug (PWT33597) recently developed by us that
was initially funded by an HRC grant is now in phase-I clinical trial in the USA. The current project
will use the experience we gained in this process to develop more targeted PI 3-kinase inhibitors
that do not affect other family members, and thus have minimal side effects. We believe that a
"second generation" targeted PI 3-kinase inhibitor will provide a more effective treatment for
cancer.
12
121,778 Gout is major problem in Aotearoa New Zealand. Previous research has shown that patients
reported comfort, fit, support and cost as important factors in choosing their own footwear. The
proposed research design is aiming to undertake a feasibility study looking at key issues such as
identifying an inexpensive walking shoe, recruitment, footwear acceptability and calculating the
numbers required for a future clinical trial. At the first visit the objectives are to evaluate four
different types of walking shoe and measure pain, comfort, footwear characteristics, acceptability
and foot function. Each participant will be randomised to one type of shoe and measured again after
eight weeks. After eight weeks the same measures taken on the first visit will be obtained. In the
long term we will see further funding from the HRC to undertake a clinical trial based upon the
results from the feasibility study.
Professor Grant
Schofield
AUT University
Auckland
.Project
(09) 921 grant.scho Built environment
9169
field@aut. and physical activity
ac.nz
in New Zealand
youth
36 1,198,920 The built environment has a considerable effect on health indicators such as physical activity,
sedentary behaviour, body size, and community connectedness. In New Zealand, we have
demonstrated large population-wide effects of built environment features with adult physical
activity (HRC 07/356); however, the association between the built environment and adolescent
health is less understood. Adolescence is a time when physical activity levels decrease substantially.
They experience changing needs for independent mobility and age- and culturally-appropriate
forms of physical activity. The proposed study is part of an international collaboration across ten
countries, and aims to characterise the links between place and adolescent health. We will measure
the strengths of association of the built environment with physical activity, sedentary behaviour,
body size and community connectedness in 1,600 New Zealand adolescents (12-18) years. These
findings will inform national and international urban design policy and interventions to support
36 1,199,005 Monitors that use the electroencephalogram to assess how deeply anaesthetised patients are when
undergoing surgery are now widely available. The optimal depth at which anaesthetics should be
given is, however, unknown. Recent observational studies have shown a 20 per cent increase in
mortality in patients undergoing major surgery who receive relatively deep anaesthesia. We plan to
perform a large scale randomized trial of deep versus light anaesthesia to definitively answer the
question of whether anaesthetic depth alters surgical outcome. In particular we will look at death
rate at one year and also whether there are differences in other complications of surgery and
anaesthesia, including wound infection, cardiovascular and neurological complications, pain and
awareness. There are over 450,000 general anaesthetics administered every year in New Zealand.
This study will have important implications for how we should run our anaesthetics and the
findings will be easily translated into daily practice.
Dr
Timothy
Short
Auckland District Auckland
Health Board
.Project
(09) 307 tims@adh The influence of
4949
b.govt.nz anaesthetic depth on
patient outcome
after major surgery
Dr
Christian Soeller
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Project
(09) 373 c.soeller@ The relationship of
7599
auckland.a nano-structure and
c.nz
function of myocytes
in heart failure
36 1,090,883 Heart failure is a debilitating condition affecting an increasing fraction of the population and often
leads to the requirement for a transplant. In this study we will clarify some of the underlying
mechanisms by investigating function and internal structure of cells from failing patient hearts. We
hypothesize that changes in the smallest internal cell structures may be responsible for a much
weaker contraction. We have identified a protein that is progressively lost in heart failure and we
will test if a therapy to prevent the loss of this protein (called junctophilin) can prevent the
weakening of the heart. We will test this experimental therapy using mice that develop heart failure
if not treated. The experiments in this study should improve our understanding of how and why
heart failure develops in some patients and will test the prospect of a new treatment approach to
improve the health of affected individuals.
Professor John
Windsor
The University of
Auckland
Auckland
.Feasibility
Study
(09) 923 j.windsor Redefining the
9791
@aucklan basics: Goal directed
d.ac.nz
fluid therapy in
acute pancreatitis
12
148,852 Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an acute inflammatory process of the pancreas with variable involvement
of other organ systems. It is a common disease with an incidence of 29.3 per 100,000 population
per year in New Zealand. In the severe form, AP carries a mortality of up to 20-54%. There is no
specific treatment for acute pancreatitis and current therapy is supportive. Intravenous fluid
therapy forms a cornerstone of this therapy. There is a lack of evidence about the optimal fluid
therapy. Data contradict each other with the latest evidence indicating that there is increased
mortality if excessive fluid is given. There is an urgent need for a randomised controlled trial to
establish the evidence base for goal directed fluid resuscitation in acute pancreatitis. The proposed
full study will be the first randomised trial investigating the use of organ specific markers to
optimise fluid therapy in AP.
Professor Brian
Darlow
University of
Otago
Christchurch
.Project
(03) 364 brian.darl New Zealand very
0747
ow@otago low birthweight
.ac.nz
young adults:
Mapping the road
ahead
36 1,150,400 We aim to assess the health and functional outcomes at 26-27 years of a large cohort of New
Zealand babies born with very low birthweight (<1500g) in1986 and included in a prospective
study. Very low birthweight babies account for nearly two per cent of all births but 75 per cent of
neonatal intensive care unit workload. Although no New Zealand data exist, overseas studies
suggest such young adults have increased risks of physical and health problems, educational
underachievement and poorer social functioning than their peers. The group was last assessed at
age 7- 8 years. We have now retraced 250 young adult survivors (77 per cent of the group) and will
bring them to Christchurch for two days of medical and psychological evaluations. A comparison
group of 100 full term adults of the same age will also be assessed. Findings will inform health,
education and social policies concerning very preterm survivors as well as future newborn care.
Professor Anthony
Kettle
University of
Otago
Christchurch
.Programme (03) 364 tony.kettle Oxidative stress in
Extension
0577
@otago.ac. health and disease
nz
Dr
Martin
Than
Canterbury
District Health
Board
Christchurch
.Project
Dr
Melanie
Bussey
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Emerging (03) 479 melanie.bu Towards a greater
Researcher 8981
ssey@otag understanding of
First Grant
o.ac.nz
mechanical
dysfunction in the
pelvis
36
149,877 Low back pain (LBP) is a common musculoskeletal condition that is both costly and disabling, with
three per cent of LBP affected people not responding to treatment, and developing chronic LBP.
This project aims to determine whether deficits in pelvic stability related to pelvic girdle pain (PGP)
are also evident in chronic non-specific LBP and whether these pelvic stability variables are
predictive of future PGP in healthy populations. During typical arthro-kinematic clinical
assessments we will measure indicators of pelvic stability such as muscle activation, joint
coordination and mobility. With these measurements, we will use artificial neural networks to
compare groups and individuals. This data analysis technique allows for analysis of complex multidimensional data. This study will identify potential predictors of low back and pelvic girdle pain in
healthy populations. Such knowledge may improve diagnostic or treatment protocols for people
with observed movement disorders.
Dr
Tamlin
Conner
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Emerging (03) 479 tconner@ The genetics of
Researcher 7624
psy.otago. wellbeing in daily
First Grant
ac.nz
life
36
149,977 People of all ages seek to experience the feelings of joy, engagement, and meaning that define a
happy life. A positive side-effect of happiness is its beneficial effects on physical health. Yet, some
people consistently experience positive emotions more easily, suggesting that genetic factors are at
play. This project will identify whether genetic variants underlie a predisposition toward positive
emotions, which would have positive health implications. Candidate genes will be tested in a large
sample of young adults. Emotions and physical health will be measured using innovative mobile
techniques to track feelings in daily life. Analyses will test for relationships among genes, emotions,
and health. This project will lead to a better understanding of why emotional wellbeing is more
readily attainable for some despite its universal pursuit. Greater understanding of the link between
emotions and daily health will also be elucidated.
Dr
Dione
Healey
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Emerging (03) 479 dioneheale Comparing ENGAGE
Researcher 7620
[email protected] and Triple P:
First Grant
go.ac.nz
Treatment
programmes for
hyperactive
preschoolers
36
150,000 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterised by dysregulation in activity
levels, attentional control, and impulse control. It emerges during preschool, often persisting into
adulthood. Several effective short-term treatments exist, however, improvements are rarely
maintained when treatment ceases. Current treatments involve external regulation of symptoms
through medication or behaviour management. Our novel early intervention programme addresses
the neurocognitive deficits associated with ADHD and teaches preschool children to self-regulate.
Results from our open-label trial showed significant reductions in ADHD symptoms and
improvements in brain functioning within areas involved in self-regulation. Importantly,
improvements in self-regulation were associated with maintained ADHD symptom reduction up to
12-months post-treatment. The proposed randomised control trial will provide a critical test of our
programme against treatment as usual (Triple P - parent training).
(03) 364 martintha Can a new
0270
[email protected]. 'Australasian Risk
nz
Score' reduce chest
pain admissions
New Zealand
36 4,242,985 Life thrives in an atmosphere of oxygen because cells use intricate strategies to exploit its
exceptional chemistry while minimizing its toxicity. We contend that a deep understanding of how
our bodies use oxygen will give insights into the etiology of many diseases. Our research is aimed at
understanding how reactive forms of oxygen contribute to normal physiology and the sequelae of
inflammation. We plan to investigate why they are essential for fighting infections but detrimental
in numerous inflammatory diseases. We will also explore how cells respond to reactive forms of
oxygen and regulate their production. There is a large emphasis on neutrophils and the reactive
oxidants they generate in response to infection and inflammation. These phagocytic cells are the
dominant white blood cell in circulation and are our primary defenders against invading pathogens
[1]. Their production of reactive oxygen species, including superoxide and hydrogen peroxide, is
essential for killing most bacteria. They also contain the green haem enzyme myeloperoxidase
(MPO), which produces the strong oxidant chlorine bleach from hydrogen peroxide and chloride [2].
22
730,040 This research investigates an innovative and workable change to the medical decision making
process for patients presenting to Emergency Departments with chest pain that is possibly due to a
heart attack. This randomised trial aims to prove the effectiveness of a new 'fast-track' (2-hour)
pathway compared with current, standard care. It uses a specially developed Australasian Low Risk
Score to identify a low-risk group of patients, doubling the number that might have heart attack
ruled out up to 10 hours earlier than is currently possible. This would make a tangible contribution
to health care by preventing unnecessary hospital admission and facilitating early discharge home
in a large group of patients. This outcome is beneficial to both patients and the health service, by
reassuring patients earlier that heart attack has been ruled-out and by avoiding unnecessary
admissions, duplication of staff activities, and reducing pressure upon urgent care services.
Professor Allan
Herbison
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Programme (03) 479 allan.herbi Neural control of
7312
son@otag fertility
o.ac.nz
60 4,844,984 This programme of work will determine how a specific network of brain cells controls fertility.
Using a variety of different mouse models and state-of-the-art neuroscience techniques, the three
principal investigators leading this programme will examine how this network functions to generate
the cyclical nature of fertility in females. Previous studies in these exact same mouse models have
proven to be very effective in generating promising new therapies for the beneficial regulation of
fertility in humans. A full understanding of how this network functions normally will provide the
foundations for designing new therapies to help infertile couples and safer, more effective,
contraceptives.
Professor Peter
Herbison
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Project
36
970,247 Meta-analysis combines the results of multiple studies to obtain an overall answer. Recent technical
advances in meta-analysis enable comparisons between multiple treatments even in the absence of
direct comparisons within individual studies, and provide ways to evaluate whether conducting
Randomised Controlled Ttrials (RCTs) and meta-analyses differently could reduce the risk of bias.
The current project will exploit these new techniques in two ways. First, we will apply advanced
meta-analytical methods to a series of specific clinical problems in disciplines including psychiatry,
cardiology and surgery, to help decide the best ways of treating patients. Second, we will examine a
number of different methodological approaches to the conduct, analysis and interpretation of metaanalyses and RCTs. The project has potential to provide better information about the risks and
benefits of specific treatments, and to improve the validity and usefulness of meta-analysis as a tool
for informing clinical decision making.
Dr
Matloob
Husain
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Emerging (03) 470 matloob.h The role of
Researcher 3420
usain@ota multisubstrate
First Grant
go.ac.nz
deacetylase HDAC6
in influenza A virus
replication
36
150,000 Influenza virus, a human respiratory pathogen, continues to be a serious medical and economic
problem for global public health. The existing anti-influenza drugs target the viral components, but
influenza has successfully mutated those viral components to acquire drug-resistance. Therefore, an
alternative approach is needed to develop the next-generation anti-influenza drugs. Influenza virus
utilizes and interacts with the host components to facilitate its multiplication. We believe that
specific influenza-host interactions should be targeted to block its multiplication. Thus, we are
proposing to investigate the role of a key host component, HDAC6 in influenza virus life cycle.
HDAC6 regulates multiple host processes and is potentially involved in various stages of the
influenza life cycle. We will employ modern biological research techniques to understand the role of
HDAC6 in influenza life cycle. The knowledge generated from this study will contribute to designing
new anti-influenza strategies.
Dr
Brian
Hyland
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Project
(03) 479 brian.hyla Restoring
7342
nd@otago. thalamocortical
ac.nz
activity to treat
Parkinson's disease
symptoms
42 1,166,489 Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common, debilitating neurological disease that causes movement
deficits. Drug treatments are effective initially but cause unwanted side effects in many patients.
Electrical stimulation of the brain is an adjunct treatment, but current methods can also cause side
effects. Our goal is to improve treatment options for patients by identifying a new brain target and
stimulation protocol combination that restores movements with minimal side effects. In PD, normal
movement generation is blocked by abnormal activity patterns in the brain movement control
circuit. We aim to bypass this block by providing normal patterns of activity, initially using electrical
stimulation. To elucidate the mechanism of brain stimulation for the treatment of PD, we will also
use new optogenetic technology that enables light to activate very specific types of brain cells. This
new technology may one day replace the use of electrical stimulation to treat PD.
Dr
Kypros
Kypri
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Project
+ 61 2
4913
8231
24
(03) 479 peter.herb Advanced meta7217
ison@otag analysis
o.ac.nz
kypros.ky
pri@newc
astle.edu.a
u
Effects of lowering
the minimum
alcohol purchasing
age on traffic crash
injury and assault
rates
263,908 In the four years after parliament lowered the alcohol minimum purchase age in 1999, from 20 to
18 years, the rate of traffic crash injuries caused by 15-19 year-old alcohol-impaired drivers was
greater than would have been expected if the change had not occurred. Other health outcomes could
not be investigated due to lack of statistical power. We will investigate longer-term effects of this
important law change on traffic crash injury and assault, two costly health problems. The study will
take advantage of the 12 years that have elapsed since the law change (with enhanced statistical
power) and will examine changes in injury rates and trends among 18-19 year-olds (targeted by the
legislation), 15-17 year-olds (with increased access via older friends and siblings), and three groups
(20-24, 25-39, and 40-59 year-olds) not targeted by the law change but also subject to extraneous
influences such as economic conditions. The findings will have direct relevance to public policy.
Professor Richie
Poulton
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Programme (03) 479 richie.poul The Dunedin
Extension
8507
ton@otago Multidisciplinary
.ac.nz
Study of Aging and
Risk for Chronic
Disease
36 5,665,540 The Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study (Dunedin Study) has followed a
cohort of 1037 individuals since their birth in Dunedin in 1972/73. The study is remarkable for the
range and depth of information that has been collected on the first 32 years of the participants' lives
and for the minimal loss to follow-up (4 per cent) up to this point (2004/05). The projects in years 1
to 3 of the current programme grant sought funding for a re-assessment of the cohort at age 38
years. This has been a success. Years 4-6 of the Programme will be dedicated to writing up Phase 38
data. The data we have gathered will provide important new information across many domains of
health and well-being from a life-course, multidisciplinary, and intergenerational perspective.
Professor Stephen
Robertson
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Project
(03) 479 stephen.ro Defining the genetic
7469
bertson@o predisposition to
tago.ac.nz biliary atresia
36 1,199,327 Biliary atresia is a lethal congenital disorder that disproportionately affects Māori and Pasifika
children. It is the commonest indication for liver transplantation in children. We aim to understand
the cause of this condition through the genetic study of a North Island iwi that has an exceptionally
high incidence of the disorder. We will use genotyping and high throughput sequencing to find the
predisposing genetic factor that underlies this observation. We will then extend our studies to other
Māori and Pasifika children to see whether this same factor may underlie the predisposition these
children have to develop this condition. Identifying and understanding this susceptibility factor will
facilitate approaches to primary and secondary prevention of biliary atresia including screening atrisk infants and consideration of other environmental factors in the causation of the disorder such
as infectious agents.
Professor Barry
Taylor
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Project
(03) 474 barry.taylo Prevention of
7748
[email protected] Overweight in
c.nz
Infancy (POI): The
emergence of selfregulation
36
Associate Rachael
Professor
Taylor
University of
Otago
Dunedin
.Project
(03) 479 rachael.tay Prevention of
5262
lor@otago. Overweight in
ac.nz
Infancy (POI):
Follow-up to 5 years
36 1,198,083 The Prevention of Overweight in Infancy (POI) study is 4-arm randomised controlled trial assessing
whether extra education & support around sleep, breastfeeding, diet, and physical activity reduces
the number of children showing excessive weight gain over the first two years of life. This
application proposes follow-up at 3.5 & 5 years of age in an anticipated 600 of the original 805
families to determine the sustainability and long-term consequences of this approach. Further
measures of growth (anthropometry, DXA), diet (questionnaire), sleep and physical activity
(accelerometry) will be obtained at both time points. Novel additional measures include analysis of
the gut microbiota and its relationship with obesity in young children, and the use of inclinometers
to measure sedentary behaviour. If successful, POI strategies are designed to be incorporated into
New Zealand's Well Child Health services to make a significant impact on overweight and the longterm health of New Zealand children.
Mr
Hudson
University of
Waikato
Hamilton
.Project
(07) 838 maui@wai Building bridges for
4028
kato.ac.nz culturally ethical
biobanking and
genomic research
36 1,141,547 Genomic research will not provide the answer to improving all Māori health outcomes however it
will contribute significantly in the future. Māori continue to consent to their tissue being used in
health research and this project will explore the ethical issues in relation to biobanking and genomic
research, and identify mechanisms to address these issues and protect communal interests. This
project will use qualitative methods within a kaupapa Māori framework to answer the research
questions;
1. What are the Māori views on biobanking and genomic research?
2. What mechanisms are necessary to address Māori issues and protect Māori interests in these
areas?
This project will enhance our understanding of Māori ethics in relation to biobanking and genomics
and position Māori to lead the development of mechanisms for enhancing consent processes and
producing guidelines that support culturally appropriate conduct, analysis, dissemination and
Maui
901,013 The development of self-regulation, which mainly occurs in the first four years of life, is critical in
setting an individual's life trajectory, and enabling them, as an adult, to achieve their full potential
and best contribution as a member of society. Long-term follow-up of the effectiveness of
interventions aimed at improving self-regulation are essential. We plan to measure self-regulation
and its underpinnings at 3.5 and 5 years of age in 805 children who have been randomised before
birth to one of four groups in a previously funded HRC study (POI.nz) aimed at preventing excessive
weight gain in early childhood. The interventions started in pregnancy and continued till two years
of age, involving advice and support to improve either sleep or feeding and activity, or both in
combination; all of which involve self-regulation. If self-regulation is improved and maintained after
the interventions finish, this should lead to improved health, educational achievement, work habits
and social outcomes, both in childhood as well as adult life.
Mr
Mikael
Boulic
Massey University Palmerston
North
.Emerging (06) 350 m.boulic@ Improving health
Researcher 4864
massey.ac. and wellbeing in low
First Grant
nz
decile classrooms
with a low cost solar
ventilation system
36
149,974 Most New Zealand schools depend on open windows for ventilation. However classrooms are
grossly under ventilated during cold weather. Consequently children are exposed to avoidable high
levels of respirable pathogens and pollutants. Conventional mechanical ventilation is prohibitively
expensive for schools. An interventional study will investigate the health improvements following
installation of a low cost solar heated ventilation system in ten predominantly low decile junior
classrooms (300 children) over two school terms for two winters. In the first monitoring period, five
classrooms will be active (ventilation operational) and five will be a control; control and active
groups will switch each term. Streptococci from throat swab, total airborne bacteria, coughing and
sneezing frequency, absenteeism and chemical pollutants will be measured. It is anticipated that
increased ventilation will lead to a healthier classroom environment as pathogen levels and
subsequent respiratory infections will be reduced, as will chemical pollutants.
Dr
Heather
Gifford
Whakauae
Wanganui
Research Services
(Te Maru o
Ruahine Trust)
.Project
(06) 347 heather.w Māori nurses and
6772
hakauae@ smoking- exploring
xtra.co.nz the context and
opportunity for
change
24
594,506 Smoking is a serious health concern for Māori, particularly Māori women who have a 50 per cent
smoking prevalence rate. Nurses are ideally positioned to act as role models and facilitate smoking
cessation among Māori, although a number are smokers (30 per cent). In order to maximise the
potential of Māori nurses to encourage Māori to quit smoking, a supportive intervention to assist
those smoking to quit is needed. This multi-method research aims to design and develop a smoking
cessation intervention suitable for use with Māori nurses. It is the first of two phases (Phase two will
be a separate application to the HRC). Phase One will comprise three stages: establishment of the
research and initial data collection, participatory research to design an intervention, and
development of the intervention. The outcome will be a kaupapa Māori smoking cessation
intervention for Māori nurses.
Professor Richard
Beasley
Medical Research Wellington
Institute of New
Zealand
.Feasibility
Study
(04) 805 richard.be Randomised Control
0230
asley@mri Trial of asthma risk
nz.ac.nz
with paracetamol
use in infancy- a
feasability study
12
149,000 Substantial observational, non-experimental evidence suggests that paracetamol use may be a novel
risk factor for asthma. Paracetamol is widely used in New Zealand children and the evidence
provided by a Randomised Control Trial (RCT) in infants will show if paracetamol causes asthma.
Our proposed main study is a randomised open-label parallel groups RCT of whether paracetamol
use as required for fever and pain in infants, following admission to hospital for bronchiolitis,
increases the risk of wheeze and atopy at age three. The feasibility study will establish the consent
rate in this group and the comparator group with the highest recruitment rate: placebo, ibuprofen
or restricted use of paracetamol. The parents/guardians of infants admitted with bronchiolitis to
Wellington Hospital will be interviewed; 50 infants will be randomised to liberal or restricted
paracetamol and followed for three months to allow testing of the utility of phone follow-up, diary
return, and assessment methods of medication use.
Professor Chris
Cunningham Massey University Wellington
.Project
(04) 568 c.w.cunnin Best Health for
7562 / gham@ma Māori : Te Hoe Nuku
(09) 801 ssey.ac.nz Roa - Housing,
5799
Hazards and Health
36
786,852 Home hazards are a major cause of injury for Māori. This study will capitalise on an existing cohort
of Māori houses which are participants in the Best Outcomes for Māori : Te Hoe Nuku Roa
longitudinal study. Audits of 350 Māori houses (Manawatu, Wellington, Nelson) will be undertaken
using the Health Housing Index developed by members of this research team. Trained Māori
auditors from building science backgrounds will undertake the audits. All houses will received
remediation: Half of the houses will be randomly assigned to an intervention group where
remediation of selected hazards will be undertaken by professional builders with the balance of the
houses remediated at the end of the randomised control trial. Post-intervention audits will be
carried out after the conclusion of this intervention study. We will also assess emergency
preparedness for earthquakes determining structural and behavioural risks for Māori. A Māori
doctoral student will complete her training.
Professor Jeroen
Douwes
.Project
(04) 380 j.douwes@ Unpasteurised milk:
0617
massey.ac. Protective for
nz
allergies and
asthma?
36 1,199,899 Studies in farmers' children have indicated that unpasteurised milk may protect against allergies
and asthma. The reasons are unclear and these findings have not been confirmed in non-farmers.
The current study will assess these protective effects in the general population making use of a
"natural experiment". It will involve 300 non-farming families who obtain raw milk through farmers
with whom they have a "cow share agreement" which allows the provision of raw milk without
contravening sales legislation. We will also recruit 150 families who do not consume unpasteurised
milk. The study will assess whether raw milk is associated with a lower prevalence of allergies and
asthma and improved lung function. It will also study the immunological mechanisms and the
involvement of pathogenic bacteria. This study will contribute towards identifying the anti-allergic
components within raw milk and has the potential to lead to novel and effective interventions for
allergies and asthma.
Massey University Wellington
Professor Philippa
Howden-Chapman
University of
Otago
Wellington
.Programme (04) 918 philippa.h He Kainga
Extension
6047
owdenOranga/Community
chapman Housing and Health
@otago.ac. Intervention
nz
Research
Programme
Dr
Lawton
University of
Otago
Wellington
.Project
(04) 385 Bev.lawto Diabetes -The
5995
[email protected] impact of maternal
c.nz
care disparities on
Māori mothers and
infants
Professor Franca
Ronchese
Malaghan Institute Wellington
of Medical
Research
.Project
(04) 499 fronchese Role of innate
6914
@malagha cytokines in allergic
n.org.nz
dendritic cell
programming
Dr
Nicola
Smith
Medical Research Wellington
Institute of New
Zealand
.Emerging (04) 385 nicola.smit An RCT of indwelling
Researcher 5999
[email protected] pleural cathers in
First Grant
rg.nz
malignant pleural
effusion
Dr
Andrea
't Mannetje
Massey University Wellington
.Project
Beverley
(04) 380 a.mannetje MOBI-KIDS New
0682
@massey. Zealand: Risk factors
ac.nz
for brain cancer in
children and
adolescents
36 3,749,138 Our Programme is focused on the social and economic determinants of inequalities in health and
well-being, in particular housing and residential energy use. New Zealand's houses are cold and
damp with many injury hazards. We spend most of our time in our houses, so physical exposure to
cold, high relative humidity and mould, as well as socio-cultural factors such as crowding, can have
important impacts on respiratory, cardiac and infectious diseases.
We have developed expertise in conducting solution-based, multidisciplinary community trials of
structural housing interventions, with the active participation of local organisations, that primarily
serve Māori and Pacific communities. We carry out quantitative and qualitative research, as well as
cost-benefit analyses. We consider that translating the results of research into policy options is a
critical, but often neglected, part of the research process.
1,192,365 There are marked disparities in maternal and infant health in New Zealand with Māori babies more
likely to die than non-Māori babies. Māori women are more likely to have Gestational Diabetes
Mellitus (GDM), which is associated with a range of adverse health outcomes including perinatal
death. Timely identification and treatment of GDM significantly reduces adverse outcomes so it is an
appropriate condition to examine for possible disparities in care. This study investigates whether
Māori women with GDM and their babies have worse health outcomes than non-Māori, and whether
they are receiving adequate screening. This retrospective cohort study design draws on birthrelated data from two DHB regions over a 15-year period with additional data obtained via NHI
matching from laboratory and nationally held databases. Improving identification and management
of GDM in Māori has the potential to reduce harm to mothers and to save babies from both harm
and death.
36 1,197,660 In this study we will focus on the early stages of the immune response to establish how allergens
interact with immune and non-immune cells to direct the initiation of allergic immune responses
and immune pathology. We will focus on epithelial cells, the first line of exposure to allergens, and
on dendritic cells, the immune cells that initiate T cell immune responses. We will investigate the
timing and site of production of a recently redefined cytokine, thymic stromal lymphopoietin
(TSLP), produced by epithelial cells exposed to allergens and parasite infections. We will ask
whether TSLP is the key factor that instructs dendritic cells to initiate allergic immune responses,
and investigate its role in immune memory. Results from this study will establish whether TSLP is a
suitable target for allergic conditions including asthma, food allergy and atopic dermatitis, and
generate a platform for identifying the environmental and functional signatures associated with
allergens of humans.
36
104,106 A cancer induced collection of fluid between the lung and chest wall (a malignant pleural effusion)
affects more than 1,600 New Zealanders each year, causing disabling breathlessness. There is no
agreement on the best way to manage malignant effusions. Conventional care involves inserting a
chest tube, draining the fluid and inserting talc into the space- a talc pleurodesis. It is painful with a
success rate of about 70 per cent. Failure necessitates further procedures. Indwelling pleural
catheters present a new strategy requiring only outpatient management, free from the side effects of
pleurodesis. This study will compare the efficacy and safety of indwelling pleural catheters with talc
pleurodesis. It will look at the number of days in hospital, complications, and quality of life with
each treatment. It has the potential to change the way patients with this condition are currently
cared for, reducing time in hospital and improving quality of life.
36
466,148 The current epidemiological evidence regarding the association between mobile phone use and
brain cancer is largely reassuring, but several studies have reported an increased risk in the highest
mobile phone users. What is more, most studies to date have included only adults, but the use of
communication technologies is rising particularly among younger generations, who are exposed to
radiofrequency electromagnetic fields from an early age. The MOBI-KIDS study, a multinational casecontrol study of mobile phone use and the risk of brain cancer in 10-24 year-olds, was launched to
fill this gap. MOBI-KIDS is the largest childhood/adolescence brain cancer study to date including
2,200 cases and 4,400 controls from 15 countries. The study addresses a wide range of risk factors
for brain cancer in this age group, thus providing an important evidence base for the primary
prevention of this disease. This application seeks funding for the New Zealand arm of MOBI-KIDS.