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Research
"What about us?"- the drawbacks of current bruxism assessment criteria in evaluating vulnerable groupsJenny Helen Kingsley Downs Leonard Wong BApplSci (physio) MSc PhD MBChB MPH MBBS, MPH, MMedStat Head, Child Disability Principal Research Fellow
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Validating the Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales–Developmental Profile Infant–Toddler Checklist (CSBS–DP ITC) Beyond Infancy in the CDKL5 Deficiency DisorderCDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD) results in early-onset epilepsy and lifelong cognitive and motor impairments. With no validated measure for communication in CDD, this study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Communication and Symbolic Behavior Scales-Developmental Profile Infant Toddler Checklist.
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Implementing telehealth support to increase physical activity in girls and women with Rett syndrome-ActivRett: protocol for a waitlist randomised controlled trialIndividuals with Rett syndrome (RTT) experience impaired gross motor skills, limiting their capacity to engage in physical activities and participation in activities. There is limited evidence of the effectiveness of supported physical activity interventions. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a telehealth-delivered physical activity programme on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and quality of life in RTT.
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Septo-optic dysplasia and gastroschisis: trends in birth prevalence and association with maternal ageThis study aims to describe the risk factors and trends in birth prevalence of septo-optic dysplasia (SOD) and gastroschisis between 1980 and 2023. This descriptive, population-based study of SOD and gastroschisis used Western Australian Register of Developmental Anomalies data from 1980 to 2023. Birth prevalence was calculated using Midwives Notification System data for all births after 20 weeks gestation.
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Down Syndrome Clinical Trial- BTD-001Helen Jenny Peter Leonard Downs Richmond MBChB MPH BApplSci (physio) MSc PhD MBBS MRCP(UK) FRACP Principal Research Fellow Head, Child Disability
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Environmental enrichment intervention for Rett syndrome: an individually randomised stepped wedge trialHelen Jenny Leonard Downs MBChB MPH BApplSci (physio) MSc PhD Principal Research Fellow Head, Child Disability +61 419 956 946 08 6319 1763
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Using ambulatory monitoring to investigate awake breathing irregularities in Rett syndrome in Australian population-based and Italian clinic samplesHelen Jenny Leonard Downs MBChB MPH BApplSci (physio) MSc PhD Principal Research Fellow Head, Child Disability +61 419 956 946 08 6319 1763
Research
Cochlear implantation in children under 12 months of age: surgical outcomes and considerations—a Western Australian perspectiveThe introduction of universal newborn hearing screening has allowed for early identification and diagnosis of children with severe-profound hearing loss. This study aims to provide the first Western Australian perspective on the surgical feasibility and safety of cochlear implantation before 12 months of age.
Research
PLAYCE@Home - understanding the impact of COVID-19 on children’s physical activity, health & developmentYoung children are no exception when it comes to the importance of friendships and social interaction for maintaining good health and well-being. This COVID-19 research project involves surveying parents and monitoring how their young children are coping during this time of social distancing.

News & Events
Childcare centres urged to adopt new policy to boost kids’ physical activityChildcare centres will be invited to help boost children’s physical activity levels by signing on to a new program which commits them to creating more opportunities for physical activity.