Articles tagged with Organ Donation
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.
Scientists mapped B-cell clone populations across the human body, discovering two broad networks that influence immune responses. The findings provide a new foundation for infectious disease research and could lead to tissue-specific immune monitoring assays.
Researchers found significant discrepancies in how potential donors are evaluated and identified across the US. They propose two new metrics: evaluating donation percentage and tracking organs transplanted per possible donor, which could help identify high-performing OPOs and improve donation rates.
Experts say international variation in brain death definition must be cleared up to improve management of patients at end-of-life and increase successful organ donation. A universal definition and procedure are needed to reduce confusion and restore professional and public trust.
A study by Maastricht University Medical Center found that up to 10% of patients undergoing euthanasia in Belgium could be potential organ donors. This estimate suggests that donation after euthanasia could significantly ease the organ shortage, potentially increasing available organs from 684 to over 1,400.
Research suggests that high-volume medical centers can recover significantly more organs from deceased donors than low-volume centers. On average, these hospitals have an organ yield rate of 0.4 higher than low-volume centers. This could lead to recovering an additional 3,000 vital organs yearly.
The Spanish system has made organ donation a routine consideration when a patient dies, with professionals exploring patients' wishes regarding organ donation. The model's success lies in its coordination and organization, making it applicable to other countries with adaptations depending on the healthcare system and factors.
A new study reveals that people favor policies that reward voluntary behavior and create advantages, while opposing those that punish obligatory behavior or create disadvantages. By understanding this 'matching effect,' policymakers can improve policy acceptance rates.
Film and television often provide misleading information on brain death, which can lead to inaccurate public understanding. Neurologists recommend improved productions that balance entertainment with accurate information about organ donation.
Researchers have identified three objective criteria to quickly identify patients with zero chance of survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) who can be considered for organ donation. These criteria include lack of witness emergency medical services personnel, nonshockable initial cardiac rhythm, and failure to return spont...
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University are developing a new approach to stabilize donor limb and tissue biology after brain death, which could lead to improved success rates in transplantation. The goal is to increase the number of viable organs available for transplant, addressing a pressing need in the field.
A new practical manual provides guidance on combining euthanasia with organ donation after death, addressing medical and logistical aspects within Dutch law. The manual aims to educate healthcare professionals about this real option, enabling them to follow proper steps.
The 13th biennial Congress of the International Xenotransplantation Association showcased significant breakthroughs in xenotransplantation, including the survival of cardiac, kidney, and pancreatic islet cell xenografts for extended periods. New technology to improve animal donor safety was also presented.
The NYU Langone team performed a groundbreaking face transplant on volunteer firefighter Patrick Hardison, restoring his sight and enabling him to perform daily tasks independently. The surgery involved the transplantation of the entire scalp, eyelids, and muscles, marking significant milestones in the field.
A consultant nephrologist criticizes Wales' upcoming opt-out organ donation system, citing concerns over a lack of commitment among potential donors. He believes that more radical solutions are needed to increase organ donation and argues that the current system may not be effective in addressing these issues.
A recent study suggests that community-level differences in organ donor designation can be explained by sociodemographic and social capital measures. Neighborhoods with lower social capital, such as high racial segregation and violent crime, tend to have lower organ donor registration rates.
Researchers found that mild hypothermia in deceased organ donors significantly reduces delayed graft function in kidney transplant recipients by nearly 40%. This intervention could lead to an increase in the availability of kidneys for transplant and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers found that state policies on organ donation and transplantation had virtually no effect on rates of organ donation and transplantation in the US. Only revenue policies, which allow individuals to contribute to protected state funds for donation promotion activities, were associated with a 5.3% increase in transplants.
A University of Toronto study finds that compensation for organ donation can increase public approval by 20-70%, but providing information on benefits has little impact on attitudes towards indoor prostitution. The research highlights the importance of context-specific information in changing moral attitudes towards morally charged mar...
New research reveals wide variability in organ donation rates across the US, with Midwest having the highest rates and New York State having the lowest. If consent rates were to increase in low-performing areas, nearly 2,700 lifesaving transplants could be made available.
A study published in the American Journal of Transplantation found that there are nearly 400 HIV-positive potential organ donors in the US who could provide life-saving organs for HIV-positive patients. The study estimates that these donors could reduce the waiting time for transplants, but the quality of their organs is a concern.
A study explores the quality of organs from HIV-positive donors for potential transplant use in the US, finding that donor kidneys may be of reduced quality. The study suggests nearly 400 potential organ donors might be available annually, but long-term viability and hepatitis C virus infection could impact organ health.
The US transplant organ shortage continues to grow, with thousands on waiting lists for 5 years or more. Medical leaders propose removing financial disincentives and exploring incentives like health insurance post-donation to ensure donor safety. However, there is ongoing debate about the ethics of introducing financial payments.
A UK hospital performed the world's first successful organ donation from a newborn, involving kidney and liver cell transplants. The donor was just over 3 kg at birth and had poor brain oxygenation, leading to her death; however, her parents agreed to donate her organs for other patients in need.
Simple screenings of organ donors can help minimize the risk of Ebola transmission through organ donation. Experts recommend excluding individuals who have recently traveled to or worked in countries where Ebola is active for a 21-day period before they can donate organs.
A US policy giving priority to prior organ donors has been shown to significantly reduce waiting times and improve the quality of organs received. Living donors who later need a transplant experience much shorter waits and receive higher-quality kidneys compared to those on the waiting list without donation history.
A targeted outreach effort increased consent rates for organ donation by 27% among Hispanic Americans, compared to a 17% increase in the non-Hispanic population. The intervention resulted in over 25,000 contacts and led to a significant increase in organ donations from this demographic.
A study found that physicians in Ontario, Canada were more likely to be registered for deceased organ donation than matched citizens or the general public. The majority of registered physicians, 47%, were more likely to register due to younger age and female status.
Research by the American Psychological Association found that people are more likely to register as organ donors if they have positive attitudes specifically about registering, rather than just supporting the idea of organ donation. Attitudes measured in surveys were key predictors of behavior.
A study found that American Muslims' negative religious outlooks hinder their willingness to donate organs, while Arab Americans showed a greater acceptance. The research highlights the need for open discussion within the Muslim community and with medical authorities to address complex issues around religion and organ donation.
A new study by transplant surgeons at Washington University School of Medicine found that moving organ donors from hospitals to a regional stand-alone facility significantly reduces costs and improves efficiency. The average cost of retrieving a liver dropped 37% after the change, while travel time for surgeons was reduced from 8 hours...
A new study reveals that US organ procurement organizations' implementation of First Person Authorization (FPA) has been inconsistent and incomplete. Despite legal backing from state laws, half the groups surveyed did not have a written policy for handling family objections.
A new study published in CMAJ found that the odds of patients with brain injury deteriorating to neurologic death decreased over a 10-year period, likely due to improved care and prevention measures such as road safety initiatives and enhanced clinical care.
A research campaign aimed at increasing organ donor registrations showed a statistically significant increase in the number of people registering to donate. The campaign, which used multiple messages and volunteers, was implemented at 20 Department of Motor Vehicles facilities in Illinois.
A new social media initiative helped boost organ donor registration rates in the US, with a 21.1-fold increase on the first day of the campaign. The study suggests that social media can be an effective tool for tackling public health problems related to communication and education.
A social media campaign on Facebook increased organ donor registrations 21-fold in a single day, with over 57,000 users sharing their status and more than 13,000 new online registrations. The effect continued for two weeks, with the number of new donors still climbing at twice the normal rate.
A new Mayo Clinic survey reveals that support for living and deceased organ donation is increasing. Eighty-four percent would consider donating a kidney to a close friend or family member, while 49% would donate to someone they've never met.
A study found a significant shortfall in organ donations at large general hospitals in Ontario compared to those treating transplant recipients. The rate was 1.4 per 100 deaths, significantly lower than the 5.0 per 100 deaths at transplant hospitals.
Columbia University researchers have created the first-ever atlas of immune cells in the human body, providing a unique view of T lymphocyte distribution and function. The study found that T cells are highly compartmentalized, with each tissue having its own complement of T cells.
A new study published in the American Journal of Transplantation found that state tax incentives for living organ donors did not increase donation rates. Despite these policies, there remain significant shortages in available organs for transplant, highlighting the need for further measures to address this issue.
A study highlights the urgent need to increase organ donations from black and minority ethnic (BME) groups due to disparities in access and waiting times. BME patients face longer waits for transplants due to differences in tissue types and blood groups.
Research suggests that improving family consent for organ donation could increase rates, with studies showing that only 50% of donors discuss wishes with a family member. Addressing negative beliefs and providing education on brain death can positively impact consent rates.
New Johns Hopkins research suggests that presumed consent legislation is unlikely to increase organ donation rates in the US. The study found that countries with presumptive consent laws do not have dramatically different organ donation processes than those without such laws.
A 22-year retrospective analysis of brain dead organ donors in the Netherlands found that discussing donation with relatives earlier may negatively impact consent rates. The introduction of the Donor Register in 1998 increased patient-consent rates seven-fold, from 5.7% to 41%.
The study reveals regional and temporal variations in organ donation across the UK, with Wales consistently outperforming its neighbors. England and Scotland have lower organ donation rates, while Northern Ireland surprises with high lung donation rates.
A European review of child organ donations highlights legal, ethical and cultural barriers across countries. The shortage of deceased donors from children is exacerbated by incompatible organ size and low donation rates.
A new study suggests that requiring a second brain death exam may be unnecessary and can lead to prolonged family suffering while waiting for the exam. The study found that no one declared brain dead in the first exam was found to have restored brain stem function in the second exam.
A new study from Purdue University found that in-person discussions about organ donation increased registration rates by 13.6%, while a low-intensity approach led to only a 3% increase.
The new pilot program aims to recover organs from deceased individuals who die of cardiac arrest outside of hospitals, honoring their wishes and saving lives. The program has the potential to transform organ donation in the US, making it possible for more people to become donors regardless of where they die.
A new tool helps neurologists identify comatose patients who are potential organ donors by analyzing four key factors: corneal reflex, cough reflex, motor response, and oxygenation index. This prediction can be made before a patient is taken off breathing support, benefiting both organ donation rates and medical resource allocation.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute found that pre-transplant smoking increases the risk of non-fatal cardiac events, while homeless donors are associated with higher complications and poor outcomes. Donor demographics also play a role in transplant survival rates, with males receiving opposite-gender hearts having worse outcomes.
A new survey by Donate Life America shows an increase in willingness to donate organs, but the US is still not keeping pace with the demand for transplants. The survey highlights pervasive myths about organ donation and encourages Americans to register as donors.
A new study by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that the number of living donor organs available for transplant has declined over the past five years, while the number of deceased donors decreased in 2008. This decline has resulted in a widening gap between the number of organs available and the number of patients awaiting a donor organ.
A new law in Israel prioritizes organ donation for those who have signed donor cards, with increased priority given to first-degree relatives and live donors. The policy aims to increase organ availability despite a low consent rate for donation.
A UK hospital has seen a significant increase in tissue donations, including corneas, after combining its bereavement and donation services. The service, which provides round-the-clock support to staff, has helped identify more potential donors and referred them to the regional transplant donor coordinators.
A study found that children's hospitals have varying policies on organ donation after cardiac death (DCD), with differences in declaring death criteria and withdrawing life-sustaining treatment locations. The researchers analyzed 73 approved policies from 105 responding hospitals, revealing notable variation among institutions.
A study found that TV networks spend little time discussing organ donation needs and registration processes, resulting in inadequate coverage of the topic. The researchers analyzed over 1,500 stories and found that only 94% of positive health outcomes for living donors were mentioned.
UT Southwestern University Hospital has received awards for its successful efforts to increase organ donation rates, surpassing the 75 percent goal among eligible donors. The hospital achieved this feat through a combination of effective strategies and strong transplant team leadership.
A presumed consent system for organ donation could tackle the UK's growing waiting list by encouraging people to talk about their wishes. This approach aims to increase the supply of organs available for transplant, reducing demand on the black market.
The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine expert discusses organ donation after cardiac death, a controversial topic that raises ethical considerations. The
Family members who declined organ donation often feel guilty due to conflicting views on the 'gift of life' vs. preserving their deceased relative's body. Despite many holding pro-donation views, they still choose not to donate out of concerns and mixed feelings about the process.