A deadly, highly-contagious and drug-resistant mutant strain of tuberculosis is spreading rapidly in South Africa. The World Health Organization warns that the situation poses a potentially explosive international health crisis due to its contagious nature and the presence of millions of migrant laborers.
Regenerative medicine holds promise for affordable treatments and offsetting donor shortages, particularly for diabetes, heart disease, and infectious diseases. The study prioritizes 10 applications, including novel insulin replacement methods, regenerating failed heart muscle, and engineered immune cells.
A study of 60 life science researchers and entrepreneurs from developing countries found a lack of communication and coordination between diaspora members and their home countries. The researchers call for the establishment of mechanisms such as Diaspora Business Initiatives and National Science Corps to facilitate partnerships and col...
Research by the University of Toronto Joint Center for Bioethics reveals five interrelated approaches used by 13 bioscience firms to address ethical issues, including strong leadership, external expertise, and internal mechanisms. The study provides a constructive starting point for the industry to build upon.
A report by the University of Toronto Joint Center for Bioethics advocates for a global network of scientists to balance biodevelopment and biosecurity. The proposed strategy aims to create conditions for fighting bioterrorism by building capacity for scientific discovery, particularly in developing countries.
The revised International Health Regulations require countries to report public health emergencies within 24 hours, but regional governments may resist disclosure due to economic concerns and federal scrutiny. This 'federalism dilemma' poses a challenge for successful implementation of the new regulations.
A 15-point ethical guide recommends prioritizing health workers' duty to care, restricting liberty through quarantine measures, and allocating scarce resources such as medicines. The guide also emphasizes the need for transparent decision-making and support for those affected by quarantine.
Disagreements over treatment decisions between healthcare professionals, patients, and families are the top ethical challenge in Canada. Key findings include emotional end-of-life critical care cases and clashes of value systems due to cultural diversity.
A new study identifies top 10 nanotechnology applications that can transform lives of billions worldwide, including energy production, agriculture, water treatment, disease diagnosis, and more. These innovations aim to close the gap between rich and poor nations, promoting sustainable development and improving living standards.
Researchers found that hospitals should prioritize fairness over quick decisions when facing a crisis like SARS, citing the need for transparency and accountability in decision-making. The study suggests areas for improvement, including better access to rationales behind decisions and formal revision/appeals mechanisms.
The study identifies key factors that led to the success of seven developing countries' health biotech industries, including focusing on local health needs, private sector commercialization, widespread collaboration and long-term government support. Successful innovations, such as Cuba's vaccine for Haemophilus influenzae type b infect...
A new report highlights the potential of biotechnologies in improving health in developing countries. The report proposes a global institute to share and promote the benefits of genomic sciences, aiming to save tens of millions of lives per year.
A study by the University of Toronto Joint Center for Bioethics found that patients' perceptions of care improved when medical staff solicited their concerns, with significant gains in symptom control, support, and pain management. The research suggests a simple yet effective approach to addressing subpar end-of-life care.
Nutritional genomics research aims to create personalized diets based on genetic make-up, but raises concerns about ethics, accessibility and regulation. The study suggests that a detailed examination of its moral implications is needed before widespread market introduction.