Articles tagged with Risk Assessment
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new study published in the American Journal of Public Health confirms the association between passive smoke in the workplace and an increased risk of lung cancer. Researchers found a 24% increase in lung cancer risk among people exposed to passive smoke, with highly exposed workers facing a 100% increased risk.
A study of nearly 900 adolescents found that nearly 80% had multiple physical activity and dietary risk behaviors. Only 2% met all four health guidelines.
Abstracts on Soliris (eculizumab) will be presented at the ASH Annual Meeting, highlighting its potential to reduce thrombosis in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) patients. The therapy has shown promise in clinical trials with significant reductions in anemia and intravascular hemolysis.
Researchers developed a model to identify high-risk patients for developing glaucoma. The model uses five key risk factors and can predict an individual's risk of developing glaucoma over the next five years. This tool will help physicians determine which patients to treat aggressively and inform patients about their treatment options.
A new Mayo Clinic study reveals that normal aging of breast tissue reduces breast cancer risk, particularly in women who experience complete lobular regression. Women with complete involution have half the risk of developing breast cancer compared to those without.
A recent study assesses the effectiveness of available technologies for detecting nuclear devices at ports, highlighting significant vulnerabilities in current security measures. The authors propose an 11-layer security system and estimate a detection rate of 90% would require substantial investments.
A review of published research suggests that cigarette smoking increases the risk of contracting HIV and progressing to AIDS. The study found that five out of six studies concluded smokers were more likely to become HIV positive, with varying risks ranging from 60% to tripling.
A recent survey of 4,193 New York City men found that nearly 10% of those identifying as straight reported having sex with at least one man. This group was more likely to be from minority racial or ethnic groups, foreign-born, and married. They were also less likely to get tested for HIV or use condoms during last sexual encounter.
A new screening tool called the pedigree assessment tool (PAT) effectively identifies women at risk for hereditary breast cancer, outperforming another commonly used tool in assessing individual patient risk. The PAT was 100% sensitive in identifying high-risk patients with potential BRCA mutations.
A new gene signature of 70 genes linked to breast cancer was found to accurately predict patient outcomes, surpassing traditional risk classifiers. The study's results suggest that the 70-gene signature adds valuable prognostic information, which may lead to improved treatment decisions and reduced chemotherapy for eligible patients.
Two new breast cancer risk models use breast density to predict individual risks, outperforming the existing Gail model. The models identify high breast density as a significant predictor of breast cancer, with some studies suggesting it may be as powerful a risk factor as age.
Researchers developed a novel approach to assessing the risk of water-borne diseases, including leptospirosis, by measuring bacterial DNA in environmental waters. The method provides a quantitative risk assessment for human disease and has implications for health departments monitoring water safety.
Experts suggest airlines take preventative steps to protect against shoulder-fired missile attacks, which could have a significant economic impact of up to $250 billion. The cost-benefit analysis is crucial in making informed decisions about countermeasures.
A large study found that measuring C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and other novel risk markers does not improve the assessment of future coronary heart disease risk. The study, which followed over 15,000 adults, suggests that standard risk factors such as age, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure remain the most accurate indicators.
Recent study finds that screening levels of C-reactive protein and other compounds do not improve prediction of coronary heart disease risk. Major traditional risk factors, such as age, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, remain the most accurate predictors of CHD.
A new calculator tool, ETHRISK, has been developed to better assess the risk of heart disease in British black and minority ethnic groups. The tool is based on a re-calibration of the Framingham risk equations and provides more realistic assessments of heart disease risks within a 10-year period.
A recent study calculates the risks of nanotechnology, emphasizing the need for rational work to understand and minimize adverse effects. The research highlights the importance of managing exposure to manufactured nano-sized particles, particularly through respiratory or skin routes.
A recent MUHC study found that Vioxx-related heart attacks can happen as early as two weeks after starting the medication. The risk of cardiovascular events decreases with longer duration of use and returns to normal after one month of stopping the drug.
Researchers developed a risk calculator that uses various statistical tests to analyze biopsy results, family history of prostate cancer, race, age, rectal examination results, and previous biopsy history. The model can help patients and physicians decide whether a prostate biopsy should be performed.
The study found that patients' lung volumes are lower following surgery and general anesthesia, increasing the risk of developing pneumonia, respiratory failure, or worsening existing lung disease. The guidelines provide patient-related risk factors and surgery-related risk factors to assess pulmonary complications.
Researchers analyzed data from the Nurses' Health Study and found that moderate-intensity exercise has a negligible risk of sudden cardiac death in women. The study suggests that regular exercise can significantly minimize this risk, making it a safe and beneficial activity for healthy adults.
Researchers found that PROCAM and SCORE accurately predict cardiovascular risk in liver transplant patients, outperforming the Framingham risk score. The study analyzed data from 303 patients who received a liver transplant between 1988 and 1994.
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the importance of preparing health ministries for progressive liberalization of trade in health services. The WHO should continue to provide guidance on international standards and advice on trade rules from a public-health perspective.
A new blood test has been developed to identify individuals at high risk for ischemic stroke in middle-aged adults. The PLAC test measures Lp-PLA2 and CRP levels, finding an 11-fold increased risk of stroke associated with elevated lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 and C-Reactive Protein.
The center aims to develop tools for early detection and a deeper understanding of microbial disease transmission, connecting science to the community.
A new study using a risk analysis model shows that soft drink consumption from school vending machines has a minimal impact on adolescent body mass index (BMI) or overweight. The authors used publicly available data sets to estimate consumption and found that regular soft drinks have little to no effect on adolescents.
The Harvard Center for Risk Analysis examines the health effects of fish consumption, finding that moderate intake reduces stroke risk by 17% and coronary heart disease mortality by 3.9%. However, high mercury exposure may harm cognitive development.
A study analyzing 13,000 Scottish individuals found that excluding deprivation from heart disease risk scoring can exacerbate social gradients in disease. The researchers call for guidelines to be adjusted to take account of deprivation, potentially saving thousands of lives.
A new method predicts the risk of emergency caesarean section for women attempting a vaginal birth after a previous caesarean section. The method takes into account several factors, including maternal age and sex of the baby, to identify those at low risk of complications.
In a study published in Nature Neuroscience, researchers found that monkeys overwhelmingly preferred to gamble by looking at the 'risky' target, even when it yielded smaller rewards. The neurons in the posterior cingulate cortex of the brain were found to be signaling the monkeys' subjective valuation of the target.
Researchers analyzed data from 12,461 patients who underwent cardiac surgery between 1996 and 2003. The study found that elderly patients were more likely to undergo emergency surgery, but their chances of survival were 50% better after the first year of surgery compared to their younger peers.
Researchers found no significant difference in tests for depression and anxiety between children of people with Alzheimer's disease who were tested and those who were not. Participants reported high satisfaction with the genetic risk assessment process, with 95% saying they would choose it again.
Researchers found that nearly 60% of patients with a minor ischaemic stroke died within 10 years, and 54% experienced at least one new vascular event. Event-free survival after 10 years was just 48%. The risk of vascular events decreased over time, but continued secondary prevention is crucial.
The NIST-developed Cost Effectiveness Tool for Capital Asset Protection (CET) Version 1.0 aids in creating a cost-effective risk mitigation plan by assessing damage scenarios, identifying potential strategies and evaluating life-cycle costs.
A comprehensive analysis of 1,721 estimates from 188 studies covering 46 countries found schizophrenia is more common in developed countries but overall less common than thought. The study revealed that immigrant populations have higher rates of the disease than native-born individuals.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers found that troubled girls in the juvenile justice system face unique challenges, including family-related issues, mental health concerns, and increased risk of psychopathy. The findings emphasize the need for specialized support and resources to address these specific needs.
The study highlights substantial risks of farm salmon escapes into the North Atlantic and other regions, threatening native fish populations. Escapes lead to interbreeding, loss of fitness, and genetic diversity, as well as parasite transmission to wild stocks.
A Harvard School of Public Health study analyzed dietary habits and found no strong association between western or prudent diets and pancreatic cancer risk. Participants who adhered to the prudent diet had healthier lifestyle behaviors, suggesting individual dietary components may still play a role in risk.
A study of postmenopausal women found that a high white blood cell count is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events and death. Women in the highest quartile had a doubled risk for coronary heart disease death, 40% higher risk for nonfatal heart attacks, and 50% higher risk for total mortality.
A new institution is proposed to measure and prioritize all major global threats, enabling governments to formulate informed policies. The World Institute for Risk Evaluation (WIRE) would gather evidence, quantify risks, and provide data-driven conclusions.
New studies using gap analysis and high-quality global databases reveal significant gaps in coverage of protected areas, affecting up to 43% of terrestrial species. The research suggests that expanding protected areas in tropical environments could improve conservation efforts for over 11,000 vertebrate species.
A study by the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School found that preparing for extreme events depends on a complex interplay between risk assessment, perception, and management. Understanding cumulative effects can increase people's willingness to take actions to mitigate risks.
Researchers found a 29% increased risk of all strokes and an 82% higher risk of ischemic stroke in women taking tamoxifen, compared to controls. The absolute increase in risk was small.
A new approach to assessing glaucoma risk, inspired by the coronary heart disease model, aims to identify individuals at risk and guide treatment decisions. This initiative has the potential to shift the focus from reactive treatment to proactive prevention and earlier intervention for those at risk.
A Baltimore study finds that EPA's ambient model estimates grossly underestimate cancer health risks from indoor air toxins. The researchers used passive air sampling badges to measure personal, outdoor, and indoor concentrations of VOCs, finding a factor of three underestimation of actual risk.
Global food safety experts gather to discuss new approaches to assessing risk of microbiological foodborne hazards. The symposium aims to create mathematical models that predict the number of illnesses that can occur and help managers control food safety strategies.
A clinical trial was stopped early after showing an unacceptably high risk of breast cancer recurrence in women who received hormone therapy. The study found that even short-term use of HRT poses a significant risk, prompting the need for alternative safe and effective strategies for managing menopausal symptoms in these women.
A study of 116,544 women found that active smoking was associated with a 30% higher risk of invasive breast cancer, especially among young smokers and those who smoked heavily. However, no link was found between passive smoking and breast cancer risk in nonsmokers.
A Canadian study found that 96% of substantiated child abuse cases did not result in serious physical harm, highlighting the need for a reevaluation of investigative procedures and risk assessments. The study's findings also raise concerns about the emphasis on rapid intervention over longer-term service needs.
The HealthGrades study found that hospital care quality differs markedly by state, with better-performing hospitals concentrated in northern states. States such as Florida, Colorado, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Michigan consistently ranked high across various procedures and diagnoses.
Women taking long-term combined HRT face a significant increase in breast-cancer risk, doubling the risk for invasive lobular and ductal breast cancer. The study found that both sequential and continuous progestin regimens were associated with similar increases in breast-cancer risk.
The guidelines recommend close monitoring of modifiable risk factors like obesity and immunosuppressive therapy, as well as careful selection of immunosuppressive agents. Effective management can reduce patient numbers affected and ensure long-term success of the transplant, maintaining quality of life and reducing healthcare costs.
Researchers found that schools with condom availability programs had higher rates of condom use among sexually active teens, but not an increase in sexual activity. This suggests that condoms may be an effective means of preventing HIV/STDs and pregnancy when used by those who are already sexually active.
Researchers have developed a non-invasive imaging method that predicts abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture risk better than traditional methods. The method, which analyzes aneurysm wall stress, was found to be 25 times more accurate in predicting rupture risk than maximum diameter.
A new index by Yale researcher Sharon Inouye assesses the risk of mortality in elderly populations by identifying high-risk medical diagnoses. The index identifies 10 conditions associated with higher mortality risk within one year of hospitalization.
A 40% higher risk of chromosomal anomalies was found for residents living close to landfill sites compared to those further away. The study suggests that proximity to landfill sites is associated with an increased risk of congenital chromosomal abnormalities.
Sandia experts have developed a vulnerability assessment methodology to evaluate and improve security at over 10,000 US facilities that manufacture, store, or use hazardous chemicals. The methodology assesses the adequacy of efforts to prevent terrorist attacks and blunt their effects at US chemical plants.
A recent study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that boating deaths are more closely tied to alcohol consumption than previously thought. The research, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, analyzed data from over 3,900 boaters and 221 boat-related deaths between 1990 and 1998.
A new study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill found that only 3.1 percent of North Carolinians are talking on cell phones while driving at any given time. The prevalence rate varied by region, with higher rates in the Piedmont and lower rates in the mountains and coastal plain.
The NIST report provides the first estimates of sublethal exposures to fire smoke's magnitude and impact on people in the United States. It also evaluates lethal and incapacitation values for smoke and identifies further research needed to improve fire hazard and risk assessment.