In the age of the Internet of Things (IoT), ethical considerations of digitally-led public health surveillance are crucial. However, their application becomes complicated due to an implicit dichotomy of ethical and legal factors. Decision-makers often omit ethical considerations, citing legal ones to justify how public health surveillance is approached and implemented.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIn science and academia, success is often shaped by both knowledge and networking. Reflecting on nearly two decades in academic research, I recount my experience as a postdoctoral immunologist returning to Australia with limited local connections and support. Upon re-establishing myself in Australia, I initially faced barriers that restricted my visibility and collaborations.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAims: Myocardial inflammation and impaired mitochondrial oxidative capacity are hallmarks of heart failure (HF) pathophysiology. The extent of myocardial inflammation in patients suffering from ischaemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) or dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and its association with mitochondrial energy metabolism are unknown. We aimed at establishing a relevant role of cardiac inflammation in the impairment of mitochondrial energy production in advanced ischaemic and non-ischaemic HF.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFImmunol Cell Biol
May 2024
This article for the Highlights of 2023 Series explores recent work that suggests that targeting CD4 CAR T cells may be critical for both of these challenges.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIn the unique landscape of immunology research in New Zealand, this article explores the collaborative networks spanning the two main islands, through a conversation with Associate Professor Joanna Kirman and Dr Robert Weinkove. The discussions delve into their dynamic collaborations with countries such as Asia, Australia and the United States, from their laboratories at the University of Otago and the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, respectively, provides insight into the translational research landscape of New Zealand, and the integration of Māori culture into all aspects of scientific research and clinical practise. Kirman's work in understanding immunological memory in tuberculosis and Weinkove's research in cancer immunotherapies, particularly CAR-T cells, are highlighted.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIn 1943, Australian scientist Miss Dora Lush's life was tragically cut short in her relentless pursuit of scientific knowledge. This article commemorates the 100-year anniversary of the journal, ICB, by celebrating the remarkable career of Lush, a renowned bacteriologist who achieved unparalleled success in an era when women faced formidable barriers to tertiary education and scientific recognition. Graduating with a Master of Science from the University of Melbourne in 1934, Lush's ground-breaking research in infectious diseases, conducted in collaboration with Frank Macfarlane Burnet AO at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI), played a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of viruses, including influenza, herpes and myxomatosis.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFImmunol Cell Biol
November 2023
Emeritus Professor Margaret Baird forged a luminary career for her pioneering research investigating the role of dendritic cells in cancer and infectious diseases, as an inspirational lecturer at the University of Otago and a role model to many. In this article celebrating the 100-year anniversary of ICB, we discuss Margaret's career and life journey through the eyes of her family and coauthors, as we explore her many publications in ICB and beyond.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe emergence of large language models (LLMs) and assisted artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have revolutionized the way in which we interact with technology. A recent symposium at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute explored the current practical applications of LLMs in medical research and canvassed the emerging ethical, legal and social implications for the use of AI-assisted technologies in the sciences. This paper provides an overview of the symposium's key themes and discussions delivered by diverse speakers, including early career researchers, group leaders, educators and policy-makers highlighting the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for scientific researchers and educators as we continue to explore the potential of this cutting-edge and emerging technology.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), also called chronic lung disease of immaturity, afflicts approximately one third of all extremely premature infants, causing lifelong lung damage. There is no effective treatment other than supportive care. Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), which impairs vision irreversibly, is common in BPD, suggesting a related pathogenesis.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFSingapore stands as a dynamic hub for cutting-edge immunological research and innovation. The country's vibrant research ecosystem is supported by collaborative networks across the many national medical and scientific research institutes, fostering meaningful alliances between academia and industry. In this article, we speak to Assistant Professor Jinmiao Chen from the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR) and Professor Nicholas Gascoigne from the National University of Singapore (NUS), Duke-NUS Medical School and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) about immunology in Singapore.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIn the vast and diverse continent of Africa, the field of immunology holds immense significance as it navigates the complex landscape of infectious diseases and public health challenges. In this article, we speak with Professor Clive Gray, who provides powerful and valuable insights into the unique research opportunities and immunological advancements supported by Africa's unique blend of social, economic and environmental factors and also discusses the societal and cultural challenges that need to be overcome for equitable research to be achieved across the continent.
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