Articles tagged with Science Advocacy
The Meixner Postdoctoral Fellowship program invests in rising talent within the autism research community, focusing on neuroinflammation, genetic interactions, neural biomarkers, and novel intervention programs. The new postdoctoral fellows will advance Autism Speaks' mission to develop effective treatments for ASD.
Autism Speaks has awarded over $1 million in research grants to explore environmental risk factors, whole genome sequencing, and effective early diagnosis programs for underserved communities. The funding will support projects led by researchers at the University of Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children and other institutions.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital developed a method to estimate flu levels in the American population by analyzing Internet traffic on specific flu-related Wikipedia articles. The model performs well during severe influenza seasons and H1N1 pandemics, providing accurate near-realtime information about disease burden.
Researchers calculate optimal schedules for thousands of situations, condensing findings into four general principles for rapid circadian shifting. An app called Entrain is available for free via the Apple store, providing a simple and mathematically optimal way to adjust across time zones.
The Autism Speaks Weatherstone program supports nine fellows in autism research, including investigating histone methylation patterns and DNA methylation in genetic disorders. The fellows will work with top mentors to advance understanding of the brain biology of autism and develop new treatments.
The Gordon & Llura Gund foundations have donated $3 million to Autism Speaks to support the Autism Ten Thousand Genomes program, sequencing over 3,000 genomes. This gift will enhance the organization's research and technology networks, leading to real-life medical impacts on individuals and families.
Branscomb was recognized for his prolific career in academia, business, government, and philanthropy, with a focus on advancing sound science in public policy. He has authored over 500 papers and books, and served in various public service roles, including the National Science Board.
A new study from Autism Speaks found that a multipronged approach is needed to assess children for autism, increasing early detection rates. However, challenges remain, including limited follow-up care and shortages of specialists and therapy programs.
A new study found that combining autism with social communication disorder (SCD) would decrease estimated prevalence under DSM-5 criteria. The researchers discovered that 83% of children diagnosed with autism under the DSM-IV would also receive the diagnosis under DSM-5, while 14% were diagnosed with SCD.
The grants will focus on reducing the average age of diagnosis, increasing access to high-quality early intervention and understanding environmental risk factors for autism. Researchers will also develop effective treatments and assess the benefits of early interventions in urban settings.
Researchers found that complex landscapes led to more complex organisms due to the cost of morphological complexity. The study used a program to simulate the evolution of virtual creatures in various landscapes.
Research published in PLOS Computational Biology found that people prefer to hasten painful stimuli over waiting for it, as anticipation can be more disabling than the pain. The study suggests that focusing on immediate pain reduces dread, while considering future pain increases it.
The Weatherstone Fellowship program supports the development of rising talent in autism research, providing critical resources for building early careers. The five 2013 recipients will work directly with mentors and collaborate with others to share knowledge and experiences.
Researchers from Argentina, Bangladesh, Philippines, South Africa and Egypt have been honored by TWAS for their work in popularizing science. Diego Andres Golombek and Anusuya Chinsamy-Turan are among the winners, who employed various media to engage the public and advocate for science education.
The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) has selected two graduate students, Jennifer Rood and Paul Tanger, to receive the 2013 Emerging Public Policy Leadership Award for their interest and aptitude in science and public policy. The winners will participate in a training program on communicating with policymakers and brief...
The Southeastern Universities Research Association (SURA) honored the Task Force for American Innovation with its 2012 Distinguished Friend of Science Award. The coalition was recognized for its efforts to strengthen the scientific and technical capabilities of the Southeast and nation, advocating for science, technology, and innovation.
Jon Cohen, a contributing correspondent for Science magazine, has won the Victor Cohn Prize for his exceptional coverage of biomedical topics and chronicling of the global HIV/AIDS epidemic. He will receive the prize at an awards ceremony on October 27 in Raleigh, North Carolina.
A new CDC report reveals a staggering 78% increase in autism diagnoses over the past six years, with estimated costs of $126 billion annually. Autism Speaks calls for a national strategy to address early diagnosis, treatment, and care for individuals with autism.
A new research agenda has been developed to strengthen the relationship between science and policy, addressing key questions on scientific advice to governments. The final set of 40 questions includes topics such as designing scientific advisory systems and ensuring early identification of policy issues requiring scientific input.
The Office of Naval Research has selected 12 winners from over 125 entries in its Sponsoring Scholars in Science challenge, with grants worth up to $100,000. The finalists will implement hands-on STEM projects, such as renewable energy systems and underwater energy harvesting technologies.
The International conference on Autism Spectrum Disorders and Developmental Disabilities in Bangladesh and South East Asia marked the launch of a revolutionary South Asia Autism Network. The network aims to identify common challenges and form partnerships to develop solutions for autistic individuals in South Asian families and countries.
Kristopher Nazor, a Scripps Research Institute scientist, has been awarded a pre-doctoral fellowship from Autism Speaks Foundation to investigate the genetic form of autism known as Fragile X Syndrome. He will use pluripotent stem cell technology to understand how neural development is affected in this disorder.
Researchers will investigate the underlying biology of GI dysfunction and test a novel probiotic therapy to restore function in children with ASD. The study aims to better understand the connections between GI symptoms, gut barrier function, immune function, and abnormal behavior in ASD.
An Iowa State University engineer studied the devastating impact of a February earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand, which killed over 160 people. The research highlighted the importance of regular building shape and structure symmetry in resisting earthquakes.
Dr. Glenn E. Schweitzer is honored for his efforts in engaging Russia and Iran in science diplomacy, dating back to the Cold War era. He has maintained relationships with scientists from these countries despite challenges and improvements in US-Iran relations.
Wesley Brooks, a Ph.D. candidate at Rutgers University, received the AIBS Emerging Public Policy Leadership Award for his commitment to fostering dialogue between policymakers and scientists. He will receive a certificate, one-year membership, and a subscription to BioScience.
The collaboration aims to verify the existence of a higher ASD prevalence among Somali children in Minneapolis. The project will use surveillance methods developed at the CDC to investigate the issue, which has been raised by parents and community members.
Geraldine Dawson, Ph.D., has been recognized as a "Rock Star of Science" for her extensive contributions to autism research and advocacy. Her work aims to discover the causes and effective treatments for autism, with a focus on improving lives for individuals with autism and their families.
The American Chemical Society hosted a symposium on science policy, focusing on the importance of scientists' involvement in shaping policy on global issues like climate change and security. The event aimed to equip young scientists with the necessary tools to become effective participants in policy debates.
Researchers identify four new autism susceptibility genes, including SHANK2 and SYNGAP1, which may lead to the development of new treatments. The study also found that individuals with autism tend to carry more genetic mutations than controls.
The Lancet highlights the 10 reasons why women and children are invisible, including a lack of social mission, poor attitudes, inadequate evaluation, and insufficient leadership. The article emphasizes the need for coordination and empowerment to address these issues.
Two recent studies identified regions with higher than expected numbers of autism cases in California, strongly associated with higher parental education and proximity to specialty research centers. Ongoing studies exploring environmental exposures and social factors will help uncover the causes of these clustering.
The CDC reports a staggering 57% increase in autism diagnoses from 2002 to 2006, with a 600% rise over the past 20 years. Autism Speaks calls for dramatic federal funding increases and policy changes to address the growing public health crisis.
The Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC) has included vaccine research studies in its updated Strategic Plan for Autism Research, responding to Congressional calls to investigate the potential connection between vaccines and autism. The plan aims to explore risk factors contributing to autism, including environmental exposu...
A new editorial in the FASEB Journal examines the risks of dietary supplements, highlighting regulatory loopholes that enable toxic substances to enter the market. Gerald Weissmann argues that these supplements represent unregulated drugs with tangible personal and professional consequences.
Dr. Neal F. Lane, a prominent physicist and former U.S. presidential science advisor, has been awarded the AIP's Karl T. Compton Medal for his outstanding contributions to physics through exceptional statesmanship. He is recognized for his advocacy of public understanding of science and technology, as well as his championship of scient...
Autism Speaks announces partnerships with Albania and Ireland to enhance public awareness and develop sustainable autism programs. The organization aims to investigate causes, prevention, and treatments for autism spectrum disorders globally.
ASU researcher Daniel Sarewitz argues that excessive direct democracy in science funding can result in abuse and a loss of credibility. He suggests that representative democracy is more effective, allowing for informed decision-making and consideration of complex issues.
Burton Richter, a Nobel laureate in physics, has been awarded the 2007 AAAS Philip Hauge Abelson Prize for his outstanding contributions to research and public policy. The prize recognizes his work on energy and sustainable development, as well as his tireless advocacy for sound science in American government.
A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that patients were more satisfied with their own smiles than dentists, rating them an average 59.1 on a 100-point scale. The researchers suggest that this disparity may be due to differences in perception and assessment methods.
A Cornell University expert argues that science and technology can be applied to reduce worldwide poverty and hunger. The new research priorities established by CGIAR's Science Council aim to improve agriculture, technology, and food-policy initiatives to stimulate economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa and western Asia.
David Michaels is recognized for his efforts to protect workers' health, particularly those exposed to toxic materials. He successfully advocated for stricter limits on exposure to beryllium and played a key role in establishing the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Act of 2000.
The American Geophysical Union issues a position statement warning that NASA's commitment to innovative Earth and space science programs is under threat due to new financial demands. This could lead to decimated effective programs and degraded capabilities in weather forecasting, search and rescue, and life and property protection.
The Initiative for Science in Europe (ISE) is an independent platform for organizations committed to scientific and technological development. ISE aims to provide a common forum for advocating independent scientific advice in European policy-making and stimulating the involvement of European scientists in shaping science and technology...
Scientists, including Stephen H. Schneider, will discuss challenges of assessing and communicating scientific risk in managing marine fisheries. Schneider also emphasizes the importance of effective science communication to counter false dichotomies in media coverage.
Dr. Walter Reich received the AAAS Scientific Freedom and Responsibility Award for his work exposing psychiatric abuse in the Soviet Union. He revealed how Soviet psychiatrists used this tactic to curb dissent, leading to human rights abuses.
Rep. Holt, a physicist and advocate for science education, has won a public service award from the American Chemical Society (ACS). He has worked to improve math and science education, increase funding for the Math and Science Partnership Program, and champion increases in the physical sciences budget.
Rep. Jerry Lewis has been recognized for his advocacy of science and technology programs at the Department of Defense. His leadership has led to an increase in funding for defense science and technology since becoming chair of the House National Security Appropriations Subcommittee.
The Association for Tropical Biology honors Ira Rubinoff's vision and perseverance in defining the direction of tropical biology research. His contributions include establishing Panama's Soberania National Park, Barro Colorado Nature Monument, and promoting forest conservation.
The American Chemical Society has awarded U.S. Sen. Jeff Bingaman for his dedication to advancing science, particularly in the areas of energy and education. He has championed double-digit funding increases for key scientific agencies, ensuring a reliable and environmentally responsible energy supply.
The Charter of Paris Against Cancer aims to improve cancer care, research, and treatment worldwide. The initiative brings together global partners to fight cancer, with a focus on patient involvement and advocacy.
Researchers found that younger medical professionals advocated greater patient input for 75-year-olds compared to 25-year-olds. Meanwhile, older faculty members suggested more autonomy for 25-year-old patients, despite the fact that younger patients often want less decision-making authority.