Articles tagged with Research Priorities
The European Commission has allocated an additional 30 million euros to COST, increasing the total budget to 240 million euros for the second half of the EU Seventh Framework Programme. This funding boost is a recognition of COST's governance and potential to drive excellence and innovation in Europe.
Researchers have proposed a new approach to ranking the relevance of research papers using social bookmarking tools. The CiteRank algorithm combines similarity and static rankings to enhance search results. It was found that users preferred recent papers but also rated highly classic papers based on priority rating.
Researchers at NIST found that polyester-rayon wipes and extraction solutions with surfactants improve spore recovery efficiency. The team discovered that vortexing is more effective than sonication in removing spores.
A new roadmap launched by the CAREX project outlines priorities for future research into life in extreme environments, including deserts, polar regions, and deep sea. The report aims to facilitate international collaboration and advance our understanding of life's adaptations to harsh conditions.
Vanderbilt University's ISIS has built a web-based platform for Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) researchers to collaborate and share knowledge. The CPS-VO aims to foster progress, develop priorities, and distribute information in the rapidly emerging field of cyber-physical systems.
The USDA has identified six lesser-known Escherichia coli types, known as the Big Six, which are increasingly of concern to food safety scientists. Researchers have developed gene-based PCR assays for each type, allowing for quick and reliable identification and detection.
Researchers from the Wildlife Conservation Society have developed a 'stress test' for coral reefs to prioritize areas most likely to survive climate change factors. The model considers environmental stressors like rising sea temperatures and their impact on coral and fish diversity.
Researchers identify resistance to cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus (CYSDV) in exotic melon varieties, with potential applications for the southwestern United States. Whitefly populations and high temperatures exacerbate CYSDV infection, highlighting the need for integrated management strategies.
A new commentary by four experts cautions against inflated expectations in genomics research, highlighting the need for balance and realism. They recommend reevaluating funding priorities, fostering statistical rigor, and developing high-quality evidence before integrating genomic ideas into medical practice.
Researchers successfully extended tomato shelf-life by introducing a polyamine-producing yeast gene, resulting in a delay of shriveling up to three weeks and a slower rate of decay. The study also showed increased levels of lycopene, a nutrient linked to cancer prevention.
Acute lung injury is a significant healthcare burden with over 75,000 deaths annually. A new study led by Boston Medical Center will compare novel therapy airway pressure release ventilation (APRV) with traditional ARDSNet treatment to improve patient outcomes.
Researchers at UC San Diego have made a breakthrough discovery that can help predict where and how quickly initial fires spread in warehouses. The study focuses on corrugated cardboard, finding that it slows the rate of fire spread due to peeling layers, making it essential for designing warehouse protection systems.
The SUNRAY project aims to identify new ways to address malnutrition in Africa, prioritizing research led by African researchers. The initiative will integrate nutrition research with other sectors to address root causes and avoid 'technical fixes'.
The MalERA initiative outlines priority research areas for eight thematic areas, including basic science and enabling technologies; drugs; vaccines; vector control; health systems; and more. The collection identifies common research priorities across themes, providing a roadmap for malaria eradication.
The Office of Naval Research showcased various technologies to improve warfighting capabilities and reduce vessel ownership costs. The Enhanced Hybrid Electrical Drive (EHED) and Shipboard Energy Storage Module (SESM) aim to enhance fuel efficiency and ensure power system stability.
A systematic process defined research priorities to reduce birth asphyxia mortality, with a focus on delivery and implementation research. The study aims to reduce almost one million deaths from birth asphyxia by 2015.
A new analysis in PLoS Medicine prioritizes research questions for scaling up community-based interventions addressing prematurity and stillbirths. The top five priorities focus on equity, behavioral practices, and quality of care provided by community health workers.
Polar research is fragmented in Europe, requiring mainstreaming into the European Research Area to address global scientific questions and climate change impacts. The European Polar Board urges a broad strategy for investment in research activities for long-term European benefit.
A gene-based test accurately identified a subgroup of very high-risk smokers who accounted for over 50% of all lung cancer cases. The study found that targeting these individuals with low-dose CT screening could significantly improve the number of early-stage lung cancer cases found, making screening more cost-effective.
Cattle fever ticks are transmitted by bovine babesiosis, a deadly disease that affects US cattle. USDA scientists have developed two strategies to control the spread of infestation: a 4-Poster Deer Treatment Bait Station and an injectable time-release treatment containing doramectin.
The Lancet authors emphasize the need for a three-part strategy to achieve malaria eradication, including aggressive control in high-risk areas, elimination from the margins inward, and research and development. They also highlight the importance of strengthening guidance and support for countries aiming to eliminate malaria.
The updated Strategic Research Plan identifies seven high-priority initiatives, including automated technologies for stem cell research and clinical research enterprise enhancements. These initiatives aim to strengthen existing research areas while exploring new ones.
Research by USDA scientists found that winter canola can be used to control weeds, supplement animal feed and produce biodiesel. This has encouraged wheat farmers in Okanogan County to diversify their market options and align with USDA's priority of developing new sources of bioenergy.
A recent report by the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee has been criticized for failing to consider recent scientific results, despite its claimed reliance on a newly created USDA Nutrition Evidence Library. The guidelines have been largely immune to criticism, but critics argue that they have contributed to rising rates of obesit...
Reducing nicotine in cigarettes to non-addictive levels could dramatically reduce smoking-related deaths, according to six leading experts. The strategy has the potential to prevent adolescent experimentation with cigarettes and reduce dependence on tobacco among addicted smokers.
The University of Washington, Oregon State University, and the University of Idaho will receive nearly $3.6 million in federal funding to develop new climate change planning tools. The Northwest Climate Science Center will provide science, maps, and assistance to resource managers to apply climate change findings.
A new analysis of voting patterns among bishops at Second Vatican Council points to indirect influence of non-Catholic churches in the Council's liberalization of the Catholic Church. Researchers found that relationships with other religious institutions were crucial factors in predicting bishops' votes on key issues.
A new report from the American Cancer Society and other health groups identifies gaps in research for 20 suspected carcinogens, including lead, diesel exhaust, and styrene. The report aims to prioritize agents for further study and funding to address existing knowledge gaps.
The report identifies key gaps in current knowledge and proposes a multi-disciplinary research approach to support HIV-positive women's reproductive health. The recommendations aim to enhance their ability to achieve their desired family size and promote healthy services.
The 11th Annual Rett syndrome Symposium saw a record turn-out of nearly 150 attendees, including leading scientists, researchers, families affected by the disease, and volunteers. The event featured sessions on treatment strategies and Autism Spectrum Disorders, with new collaborations and relationships forged among participants.
A preliminary study using comic strips to educate African-American girls aged 8-10 showed high log-on rates and statistically significant increases in fruit consumption and physical activity. The program aims to be expanded to a larger group of volunteers with the goal of developing a version for Hispanic girls.
The Canadian Medical Association Journal editorial calls for IDRC Chair Barbara McDougall's resignation due to her ties to the tobacco industry. This is seen as a conflict of interest, undermining the institution's credibility in international development.
Researchers gathered daily birding activity reports from over 1,000 ornithologists to study the spread of non-native plants. The study found that specific birds are contributing to the dispersal of certain invasive plant species through their feeding habits.
A beneficial microbe called Muscodor albus may help protect fresh grapes from troublesome gray mold. Experiments have shown that M. albus can combat Botrytis cinerea, the organism that causes gray mold.
Michigan State University is leading a global initiative to study the complex relationships between humans and the environment. With a $1.5 million NSF grant, MSU will build a global database of scholars and their projects, fostering collaboration and raising awareness about sustainability research.
A recent WHO report reveals 1.2 million annual road deaths, with driver obesity linked to higher injury risk in motor vehicle crashes. PLoS Medicine publishes research and magazine articles discussing policies to protect pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists from injury.
Researchers at the University of Southampton are exploring the use of patient-derived stem cells to mend damaged hips. The study aims to improve outcomes for revision hip replacement therapy, a procedure where surgeons introduce donor bone to provide support for the new hip stem.
New research documents American pika's wider temperature tolerance than previously thought, with 12% of occupied sites below historic records. Rock formations buffer pikas from warming temperatures, suggesting a greater distribution in the region.
A systematic review highlights clinical features that confirm or exclude the possibility of serious infection in children presenting to general practice. Clinical features like cyanosis, poor peripheral perfusion, and petechial rash are deemed red flags, while parental concern and doctor's instinct are strong indicators.
Scientists are studying the physical processes of ice formation in insects to understand why some survive freezing while others don't. The research found that insects that freeze at consistently higher temperatures have adaptations that allow them to control ice formation, implying cellular or biochemical level adaptations.
A new study reveals that over half of pregnant women experience physical risks at work, including standing or lifting heavy objects and exposure to stress. The study highlights the need for improved workplace protection in Spain to safeguard reproductive health.
The industry is shifting towards organic methods, with growers citing environmental concerns and a desire to reduce their ecological footprint. Organic bedding plant producers face challenges such as insect and disease management, fertility issues, and substrate problems, highlighting the need for future research in this area.
Researchers define global conservation priorities for endangered carnivores considering socioeconomic and life-history factors. The study identifies 41 ecoregions worldwide as key areas for cost-effective conservation investments.
Researchers will analyze toxic chemicals' impact on human health and potential causes of serious diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The three-year project uses zebrafish and mouse models to speed up testing and provide new information on chemical risk assessment.
Reducing short-distance car trips by promoting walking and cycling can decrease car accidents, reduce heat-trapping pollutants, and promote physical health and activity. Community leaders can use low-cost options to encourage people to get active, with examples including city-bike sharing, customized maps, and grassroots campaigns.
The Wellcome Trust has launched a £30 million initiative to strengthen research capacity in Africa. Seven international and pan-African consortia will develop institutional capacity for health-related research vital to enhancing people's health, lives, and livelihoods.
The IOM CER Committee recommends prioritizing research on high-priority topics, including improving the uptake of new knowledge and its translation into better decision-making. The committee aims to create a sustainable national CER initiative that can improve healthcare for individual patients and communities.
Research waste occurs due to poor design, inadequate reporting, and biased publication practices. The Lancet authors recommend improving research quality by increasing clinician-patient involvement, using systematic reviews, and supporting open access.
Global health is defined as an area of study that prioritizes improving health globally, particularly in achieving equity among all people worldwide. The definition emphasizes transnational health issues, determinants, and solutions, involving multiple disciplines and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.
A study published by researchers at Thomas Jefferson University found that patients with low cytoplasmic HuR levels had a 7-fold increased mortality risk after receiving gemcitabine treatment. High HuR levels, on the other hand, were associated with improved treatment response and reduced mortality risk.
A new study finds that following quality measures has a greater impact on patient outcomes than hospital volume for coronary artery bypass surgery. Patients treated by surgeons and hospitals with high adherence to six quality standards have better post-operative results, regardless of their volume, the research team found.
In the past two years, significant strides have been made in malaria control and elimination, with many countries setting ambitious strategies to achieve low transmission and mortality rates. Research into vaccines, drugs, and other interventions continues to flourish, offering hope for a future malaria-free world.
Researchers have found ancient coral beds off the coast of Hawaii that are over 4,200 years old, making them some of the oldest living creatures on Earth. The discovery was made using carbon dating methods and has significant implications for the protection of these reefs.
The new SemountsOnline portal offers improved management of seamount resources and conservation of seamount habitat through its expanded spatial searching tools. Researchers and managers can now access a vast amount of data on seamount biological communities, facilitating a greater understanding of seamount ecosystems.
Childhood diarrhoea claims almost 2 million lives annually; researchers prioritize improving acceptability and effectiveness of oral rehydration solution (ORS) and designing locally adapted training programs for health workers. The top research priorities aim to optimize use of available interventions and programs.
The International Polar Year 2007-2008 provided critical evidence of global warming's impact on polar regions, including sea ice decline and increased ice sheet melting. Researchers also discovered significant carbon storage in permafrost and changes in Arctic vegetation affecting local ecosystems.
Researchers have developed a new method to prioritize disease-associated SNPs by analyzing genes with high differential expression rates. This approach, called fitSNPs, successfully distinguished true disease genes from false positives in genome-wide association studies, and can serve as a powerful tool for prioritizing disease genes.
The Bamako call to action emphasizes the importance of knowledge translation, regional alliances, and robust regulatory frameworks in strengthening health systems. Countries committed to allocating at least 2% of national health budgets to research and funding funders to invest at least 5% of health sector aid to research.
Seven in ten registered voters say major changes are needed in the U.S. health care system, according to a Kaiser/Harvard survey of registered voters in September. The public's perceptions of the state of American health care and the role of health care as an election issue are also explored.
The University of Queensland's new center, the Pacific Malaria Initiative Support Centre (PacMISC), is part of a global effort to eliminate malaria in low and middle-income countries. PacMISC will focus on Vanuatu and Solomon Islands, providing flexible assistance to national malaria control programs.