Research Version 3
A national network will conduct RCTs of current interventions (Botulinum toxin A); phase II trials of new interventions and/or methods of delivery (Telerehabilitation)21 with clinical/ imaging biomarkers to identify and monitor brain structure and functions that underpin response to treatments
1. Research Themes and Streams
The CRE research activities will generate new knowledge across 5 themes in 4 streams (Figure 1):
(i) Pre-clinical & Neuroprotection theme: Preclinical trials will be translated to phase II/III trials in infants at high risk of CP (Melatonin10, Sulphate74, Cord Blood9, 75, Stem cells11) ;
(ii) Early Detection & Neuroimaging theme: Identification of very early clinical and neuroimaging biomarkers in preterm and term-born infants at 30 and 40 weeks gestation will provide clinical tool boxes of brain structure and function measures for earlier detection of CP31. A national training program in GMs Assessment and implementation of APP technology will enable early detection of CP for families across Australasia including remote and isolated places30.
(iii) Clinical Trials theme: a national network will conduct RCTs of current interventions (Botulinum toxin A); phase II trials of new interventions and/or methods of delivery (Telerehabilitation)21 with clinical/ imaging biomarkers to identify and monitor brain structure and functions that underpin response to treatments64, 76
(iv) Knowledge Translation & Implementation theme: Development and implementation of new international Clinical Practice Guidelines with web based decision tools for evidence to the desktop across the 5 state-wide rehabilitation services.7
(v) Engagement & Health Policy theme: an updated survey of consumer views of research priorities52, and consumer engagement to inform service delivery and national funding (NDIS)39, 61.
The four workgroup streams across all 5 themes in the Clinical Trials Network include:
(i) New Knowledge Generation stream: in pre-clinical and clinical trials;
(ii) Clinical & Research Training stream: Build capacity nationally with 11 new post-doctoral fellows and 14 new PhDs with leadership training, national training and mentorship from key national/international leaders;
(iii) Implementation & Translation stream: with the development of Knowledge Translation (KT) tools and international Clinical Practice Guidelines; and
(iv) Health Economics, PROMs, & Telehealth solutions stream: implementation of new knowledge, underpinned by health economics with flexible delivery.