Articles tagged with Research Ethics
A survey of UK doctors found that the pandemic has led to an increase in willingness to forgo life-saving treatments for very sick patients, while views on euthanasia and assisted dying have remained unchanged. The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed end-of-life care, prompting a reevaluation of clinicians' decision-making processes.
Researchers using 'blastoids' - in vitro models of the blastocyst - discovered that early embryonic signals induce placental development and prepare the uterus. The findings may contribute to a better understanding of human fertility and potentially improve IVF procedures, fertility drugs, and contraceptives.
Researchers developed a methodological framework to ensure web data validity in marketing studies. The study provides recommendations for addressing challenges in collecting and using web data via web scraping and APIs.
Researchers emphasize the need for targeted recruitment to make genetic tests clinically useful for non-European groups. By addressing cultural concerns and underrepresentation, efforts can reduce the incidence of variants of uncertain significance (VUS) in genetic databases.
The University of Birmingham has published new ethical guidelines for the collection of patient-reported outcomes in clinical research. The guidelines aim to reduce risk and burden for participants while increasing participation in research and protecting their welfare.
A new study analyzing 174 peer-reviewed studies on the effects of nature on human well-being found that participants were overwhelmingly white and from high-income countries. The research highlights a diversity problem in the field, which threatens its ability to make universal scientific claims.
The Tuskegee experiment's 50th anniversary highlights the importance of conscience in researchers and the dangers of unethical study methods. Dr. Martin Tobin emphasizes that research regulations cannot substitute for a researcher's moral compass.
A new Hastings Center special report calls on bioethics to take a lead in addressing racial injustice and health inequities in the US. The report highlights structural racism and anti-Black racism in healthcare settings and proposes transformations in bioethics scholarship, education, and research.
Researchers found a weak correlation between provider and patient satisfaction with anesthesia during ocular surgery, suggesting that providers are poor predictors of patient comfort. The study recommends further research to understand patient satisfaction with anesthesia.
Researchers from Osaka University proposed a comprehensive ethical framework and practical guidance for communicating with research participants through the Internet. The framework addresses issues such as participant recruitment, informed consent, and data protection, aiming to improve future practice in medical research.
A University of Oklahoma research team is exploring ethical AI methods specifically in environmental sciences. They aim to develop trustworthy AI tools to help mitigate weather and climate disasters. The team's work seeks to address biased AI algorithms that favor areas with higher populations.
Researchers at Columbia University have developed an algorithm that generates whisper-quiet sounds to block smart devices from spying on users. The system works by predicting the characteristics of spoken language and generating a signal that can disrupt automatic speech recognition models.
Researchers at Rutgers University propose a new approach to COVID-19 vaccine testing by combining conventional and challenge trials. This parallel approach, called Combining Conventional and Challenge trials (CCC), aims to facilitate faster and more accurate vaccine assessment and more effective pandemic response.
A team of researchers from Kobe and Kyoto universities proposes an ethical framework for conducting research on conscious brain organoids. The framework assumes that brain organoids already possess consciousness and recommends guidelines similar to those for animal experiments. Key considerations include minimizing the number of organo...
Researchers found that industry-sponsored clinical trials neglect to cite previous trials by up to 30%, while non-industry-funded trials do so at a rate of 20%. This omission may lead to redundant or less impactful research. The authors call for complete and impartial citation of prior studies in trial protocols.
The article highlights the need for a more diverse approach to stem cell policy, including consideration of Muslim contexts and perspectives. Researchers argue that this could lead to a more nuanced understanding of bioethics and potentially expand the use of embryonic stem cells in research.
A York University expert argues that invertebrates can feel pain, have emotions, and deserve moral consideration. Research suggests that decapod crustaceans and cephalopod molluscs are sentient, challenging traditional views on animal welfare.
A recent viewpoint article highlights the need for open access to digital sequence information (DSI) to facilitate real-time responses to global crises. The authors propose community self-governance as a solution to enable international collaboration, improve benefit-sharing mechanisms, and promote equitable sharing of DSI benefits.
The American Association for Anatomy (AAA) has published a special issue of The Anatomical Record examining its complex history and addressing structural racism and questionable ethics. The issue proposes recommendations for creating an inclusive future for the field.
Researchers surveyed over 26,000 genetic genealogy participants about their experiences discovering previously unknown relatives. Most reported learning the identity of at least one relative, with some finding close family ties and others experiencing life-changing discoveries.
A new study by WVU researcher William Walker found that the blood-brain barrier is dynamic and more receptive to chemotherapy at night. This could lead to better treatment outcomes for patients with brain metastasis.
A new framework, known as the Character Lens perspective, has been developed to account for patterns in individuals' understanding of and approach to ethical choices. This framework acknowledges the significant role of moral character in influencing how people perceive the world and make decisions.
A team of researchers from the University of Tokyo found that public trust in AI varies greatly depending on the application and demographic factors. They developed an octagonal visual metric to quantify these attitudes and hope it can lead to a universal scale for measuring ethical issues around AI.
A new study reveals significant bias in fossil data due to colonial influences, with high-income countries contributing 97% of research. Local researchers are often devalued, leading to unethical practices and mistrust.
The article highlights the importance of addressing systemic racism in forensic sciences by engaging with descendant communities and institutions. Forensic researchers advocate for repatriation and interment of remains collected without consent, emphasizing the need for uncomfortable conversations and criticism on issues related to race.
A new report by The Hastings Center suggests that releasing gene-edited species into the wild demands deep public engagement. The report proposes a path forward for inclusive, values-based decision-making through public deliberation.
A recent study published in JNCCN found that 33 out of 81 studies lacked transparency on censoring, which can introduce bias and affect trial results. The researchers emphasize the need for improved transparency and reporting in clinical trials to ensure patients and clinicians make informed decisions.
Researchers have discovered molecules that could be candidates for contraceptives or fertility enhancers using human blastoid models. These models also show promise in improving the self-organization of stem cells during IVF procedures.
A team of international researchers has developed a globally-applicable ethical code for ancient human DNA research, aiming to address social and cultural implications. The code proposes cooperation with stakeholders, minimal damage to human remains, and respect for indigenous communities' perspectives.
A recent study published in PLOS Biology found evidence of editorial bias and nepotism in some biomedical journals, where a few authors, often on the editorial board, dominate publications and receive preferential treatment.
A URI researcher has published a series of articles in the journal Biological Invasions to address concerns about diversity, equity and inclusion. The study found that the editorial board was overwhelmingly American and white, with most papers published by Americans and Europeans.
Researchers at Lancaster University examine the use of AI in the food sector, highlighting the need for trusted data collaboration to reduce waste and increase sustainability. They also warn about potential ethical issues and unexpected consequences of new technology.
A recent study highlights the negative effects of misinformation on stem cell therapies for COVID-19, including exaggerated claims and unregulated sales. The researchers advocate for increased enforcement of laws and regulations to protect patients and promote responsible science communication.
Researchers found that selecting the embryo with the lowest predicted risk score reduces disease risk more effectively than eliminating high-scoring embryos. However, polygenic embryo screening offers no guarantees about a baby's health and has limited effectiveness depending on factors like ancestry and age.
The American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery will present research on ear health, head and neck cancer, sleep-disordered breathing, and more at its annual meeting. Twelve 'Best of Orals' and 14 late-breaking scientific oral presentations will be showcased.
A new study proposes a practical way of measuring how different nations should reduce carbon emissions to maximize worldwide wellbeing. The utilitarian approach assigns different emission reduction goals to countries based on their wealth and ability to grow and maintain citizens' health.
Pharmaceutical companies in the Open Pharma collaboration recommend developing plain language summaries of peer-reviewed medical research articles. The summaries should be understandable, unbiased, non-promotional, and easily accessible. This move aims to make medical publishing more open and inclusive for all audiences.
The removal of the 14-day rule from international guidelines on embryo research has sparked concerns among bioethicists about the lack of consideration for potential consequences. The authors argue that countries should not automatically amend their laws without thoughtful discussions involving stakeholders and citizens.
A new PETA paper reviews data from over 15,000 animals subjected to the forced swim test, finding no correlation with human trials. The study suggests that the test is not a reliable method for identifying antidepressants.
The documentary highlights key sustainability topics, including reducing energy requirements for complex computations and minimizing quantum computing's own environmental impact. Industry leaders from global tech giants to start-ups assess the industry's potential to address global sustainability issues.
Researchers analyze case studies to develop a flexible decision support model for split liver transplantation, considering fairness and efficiency metrics. The study suggests oscillating between splitting and not splitting based on patient health and demographics.
A decade-long investigation reveals the continuous male line of the Da Vinci family, tracing 21 generations and five family branches. The study also provides new discoveries and family tree updates, deepening previous findings and offering a strong basis for advancing DNA research.
A new study reveals that American Indian and Alaska Native individuals are underrepresented in clinical studies, with only 1% of participants from these groups. The authors call for further research to improve ethical inclusion in clinical research.
A Harvard study found that white men having a Black neighbor as children are more likely to be Democrats and less likely to be Republicans. The analysis linked historical data from the 1940 US Census with contemporary voter files, revealing correlations between early-life exposure and long-term political views.
Researchers propose five interventions to promote equitable ecology practices, including amplifying diverse expertise, addressing data sovereignty issues, and deconstructing biases in research teams. These actions aim to connect with existing anti-colonial and anti-racist struggles and promote ecological justice.
A global team has discovered that the nutritional quality of cereal grains varies substantially with location, posing a 'postcode lottery' to micronutrient deficiencies. The study found that some areas have much lower levels of essential nutrients like calcium and iron.
Researchers discovered that users respond differently to AI systems asking for personal info when offered help versus asking for help themselves. Help-seeking AIs gained more trust and increased intentions to share personal info. The study suggests designing AIs to increase user awareness of personal info importance.
Researchers found that most top-rated fertility apps mismanage and misuse user data, compromising reproductive health and rights. The study calls for stricter categorization of these apps to protect women's intimate information from exploitation.
Scientists have successfully generated human-monkey chimeric embryos, allowing them to study human development and disease under in vivo conditions. The research has the potential to provide new insights into evolutionary barriers to chimera generation and improve model systems for studying human biology.
A recent study found that African elephants' actual range has shrunk to just 17% of its potential due to human pressures, including ivory killing. Despite this, the researchers suggest that elephants can still recover into areas with light human footprint for peaceful coexistence.
Companies may be intentionally hiring managers with questionable ethics and narcissistic tendencies to manage earnings. Researchers found that these 'dark' personality traits are often preferred over more ethical candidates, leading to inflated earnings reports.
A new study from Osaka University reveals that Japan is ready to embrace active patient involvement in research, following the US and UK trends. The Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases Study JAPAN uses online platforms and virtual tools to facilitate collaboration between patients and researchers.
A recent study published in Information & Management found that human analysis can effectively identify fake online reviews by leveraging linguistic characteristics. Researchers asked participants to distinguish between authentic and fake hotel reviews, with surprisingly effective outcomes.
A recent study published in the Journal of Social Networks found that team-building interventions can have mixed feelings among employees, with some regarding them as a waste of time. The researchers suggest that some degree of openness and vulnerability is necessary for effective connections with colleagues.
University of Illinois Chicago faculty members advocate for research ethics reforms to engage Black populations in COVID-19 and BLM-related studies. The authors recommend understanding ongoing trauma, acknowledging historical context, and ensuring diverse research teams to foster trust.
Army researchers studied moral dilemmas involving autonomous machines, revealing that risk and social influence shape decision-making. The study contributes to the development of AI systems that reflect society's ethical standards, facilitating adoption by the Army and acceptance by the general public.
The BioRescue project, a northern white rhino conservation program, faced significant challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite international travel restrictions and revenue losses, the consortium successfully continued research and made progress in embryo creation and stem-cell techniques.
Researchers used machine learning to generate high-quality synthetic human genomes without real human donors, addressing accessibility barriers in genomic research. The generated genomes mimic real human populations' complexities and can serve as proxies for underrepresented populations.
A multidisciplinary team of international experts recommends that healthy individuals participating in COVID-19 challenge trials should receive substantial payment. The study's findings reflect the importance of compensating research-related harms and minimizing risk to promote social value. The researchers' framework provides guidance...
The current 14-day limit on human embryo research is being urged to be extended to 28 days, as technology and knowledge have advanced over the past 40 years. This could lead to discoveries of new treatments for recurrent miscarriage and developmental abnormalities.