Eubios News in Bioethics & Biotechnology - May 2000

Comments are written in text form together with recent references. This list continues from the last issue of EJAIBand will continue. The full list of news (OLD = 1991-1993; NEW = 1994+) until May 1999 is available on-line topic-by-topic, at: http://eubios.info/NBB.html

Abbreviations

Comments are written in text form together with recent references. This list continues from the last issue of EJAIB and will continue. This list is available on-line topic-by-topic, at:
http://eubios.info/NBB.html

Challenges in order to feed poor people are made in van Wijk, J. "Biotechnology and hunger: Challenges for the biotech industry", Biotechnology & Development Monitor 41 (2000), 2-7. Comments on the lack of money to buy food are in Nature 404 (2000), 222. Local farmer's could produce enough food to feed Africa if they were given a chance according to a letter in Nature 404 (2000), 431.

A review of use of simple biotechnology techniques to aid Henequen production in Mexico is Biotechnology & Development Monitor 41 (2000), 11-5. On herbivore resistance, Ecology 81 (2999), 49-65. Research on fruit design from model systems is discussed in Nature 404 (2000), 711. Enhanced phosphorus uptake is reported in transgenic tobacco that overproduce citrate, NatBio 18 (2000), 450-3.

A rice with 35% increased production by insertion of maize genes is being tested, NS (March 2000), 19. Comments questioning the benefits of genetically engineered rice containing vitamin A are in Ram's Horn 178 (2000), 2-3; Splice 6 (March 2000), 4-5. The use of tobacco plants to produce transgenic proteins offers some advantages over animal cells, GEN 20 (15 March 2000), 20, 29, 54.

Genetic Engineering of Animals

PPL Therapeutics has reported success in the cloning of piglets, NatBio 18 (2000), 365; GEN 20 (1 April 2000), 20, 46; Splice 6 (March 2000), 16; Time (27 March 2000), 43. Direct cloning of mice from ES cells is reported, NatBio 18 (2000), 135; PNAS 96 (1999), 14984-9. Deciding animal breeding goals for sustainable production is discussed in J. Animal Science 78 (2000), 570-82. A review is Bulfield, G. "Farm animal biotechnology", TIBTECH 18 (2000), 10-13. Genetic imprinting and breeding is discussed in NS (15 April 2000), 8. Book reviews of Wilmut, I. Et al. The Second Creation: Dolly and the Age of Biological Cloning (Farrar Straus & Giroux 2000, ISBN 0374141231) are in NS (18 March 2000), 50; Science 287 (2000), 1404-5; Nature Genetics 24 (2000), 347; Lancet 355 (2000), 661. The cloning of pets is still available to the rich and sentimental (if successful), NS (15 April 2000), 33; NatBio 18 (2000), 366.

A review of the engineering of a smarter mouse is Tsien, JZ. "Building a brainier mouse", SA (April 2000), 62-8. A mouse model for stress is Bale, TL et al. "Mice deficient for corticotropin-releasing hormone receptor 2 display anxiety-like behaviour and are hypersensitive to stress", Nature Genetics 24 (2000), 410-5. A Drosophila model for Parkinson's disease is reported in Nature 404 (2000), 394-8, 341-2. A possible therapy is reported in Yamamoto, A. et al. "Reversal of neuropathology and motor dysfunction in a conditional model of Huntington's disease", Cell 101 (2000), 57-66, 1-4; also Nature 404 (2000), 721-2. Models of neurodegenerative disease are reviewed in BioEssays 22 (2000), 297-304.

A discussion of the need for animal models of human genetic disorders is Comparative Medicine 50 (2000), 10-1. Two mice models for obesity studies are reported in NatMed. 6 (2000), 263; BMJ 320 (2000), 962; Nature Genetics 24 (2000), 377-80; and a review is Pharmacological Reviews 52 (2000), 35-57. A discussion of the difficulties of genetic studies in mice is Science 287 (2000), 1409-10. Genotyping of SNPs in mice is reported in Nature Genetics 24 (2000), 381-6. Phenotype assessment is discussed in Comparative Medicine 50 (2000), 12+. A mouse model of hepatitis B and delta has been made, NatMed. 6 (2000), 327-31. A review on biological clocks is SA (March 2000), 64-71; also Nature 404 (2000), 25-8.

Designer Molecules

Therapeutic antibodies are reviewed in Lancet 355 (2000), 735-40; NatMed. 6 (2000), 373-4. A review of antibody production methods is in GEN 20 (1 April 2000), 1, 24, 54. Induction of human cytotoxic T lymphocytes by artificial antigen-presenting cells is reported in NatBio 18 (2000), 405-9. A review on the role of the sugar code in biological information transfer is Naturwissenschaften 87 (2000), 108-121. The stability of non-viral plasmid-based therapeutics is reviewed in J. Pharmaceutical Sciences 89 (2000), 289-96. On drug discovery, TIBTECH 18 (2000), 31-4.

Polymer science is making better materials for transplants and medicine, JAMA 283 (2000), 1943-7. A report on artificial blood development in Japan is in Pharma Japan 1688 (13 March 2000), 18-9. See a review in Winslow, RM. "New transfusion strategies: Red cell substitutes", Annual Review of Medicine 50 (1999), 337-53. A review of microbial biotechnology is TIBTECH 18 (2000), 26-31. Biosynthesis of lysine from bacteria growing on fish silage is reported in Bioresource Technology 73 (2000), 221-5. The use of old chicken feathers to make plastic for cars is discussed in SA (April 2000), 26. Robots and imitation of life is reviewed in Science 288 (2000), 80-3. The possibility that signs of ancient life on Mars are buried is discussed in NS (March 2000), 11.

Biotechnology & the Public

;The ethics of biotechnology communication are discussed in Science and Engineering Ethics 6 (2000), 265-87. The 1999 Environment and Social Annual Report of Novo Nordisk (Denmark) includes environment, bioethics and social responsibility under the theme of sustainable development (68pp.). A recent book in Spanish is Casabona , Carlos Maria Carlos. Biotechnologia y Derecho, Perspectives en Derecho Comparado, Fundacion BBV, Bilbao Granada 1998, 5 chapters , 407pp. Other recent books include Naisbitt John et. al, High Tech High Touch, Broadway books 1999, 2 parts, 274pp; Wingerson, Lois. Unnatural Selection, Bantam book 1998, 18 chapters, 399pp. A book review on Science and Technology in World History is in Nature 404 (2000), 17-8. A review of Sex and Death is JAMA 283 (2000), 2038. A review of George Gamov who thought of the Big Bang and the genetic code first is Nature 404 (2000), 437. The honouring of Mendel is discussed in Science 288 (2000), 37-9.

;The program of work and information on the Canadian Biotechnology Advisory Committee are on-line (http://cbac.gc.ca). A call for something like the Asilomar process for new biotechnology issues is called for in Science 287 (2000), 1584-5. The politics of biotech is discussed in Science 287 (2000), 1201. The need to be open to gain public trust is stressed in NS (18 March 2000), 3. The UK parliament and public opinion on science are discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 941. The future of biotechnology is discussed in TIBTECH 18 (2000), 6-7; NatBio 18 (2000), 357. A review on the ethics is Polkinghorne, JC. "Ethical issues in biotechnology", TIBTECH 18 (2000), 8-10. The GM controversy has had adverse affects on UK science research, NatMed. 6 (2000), 364.

;A report from Craig County, Virginia where citizens oppose a new transgenic animal facility is GeneWatch 13 (Feb. 2000), 12-3.

;Crowded universities may inhibit study in Japan, Nature 404 (2000), 13. In the USA the brightest students are avoiding science, Science 288 (2000), 43. Making old biologists capable for the new biology is discussed in NatBio 18 (2000), 359. The UNESCO director has said it was worse than he thought and calls for reform of UNESCO, Nature 404 (2000), 113. The science-religion debate is discussed in Nature 403 (2000), 831; Science 287 (2000), 1587.

Regulation & Field Trials of GMOs

Germany has decided to halt the commercial cultivation of Bt maize developed by Novartis, Nature 403 (2000), 821. The US EPA is reconsidering guidelines for Bt crops, EST 34 (2000), 119-20A. A corn modified to be resistant to corn root worm is discussed in Science 287 (2000), 1390. A report from a case study for the usefulness of transgenic potatoes in Mexico is Biotechnology & Development Monitor 41 (2000), 6-10; Science 287 (2000), 1399. The need to stop GM cotton weeds growing in other crops to avoid the re-emergence of cotton boll weevil is being shared with farmers, NS (15 April 2000), 17. The EU has formalized use of the precautionary principle, EST 34 (2000), 166-7A.

New Zealand is preparing for a royal commission on genetic engineering, Christchurch Press (4 March 2000), 10. The Japanese MAFF has announced it will set up an expert panel on the environmental risks of GMOs, Nature 403 (2000), 697.

On organic agriculture standards, Ram's Horn 178 (2000), 4-7. Organic farmers now have a new broad spectrum herbicide, NS (4 March 2000), 15. The rules of food webs are discussed in Nature 404 (2000), 180-4. The possibility of DNA mixing in viruses is discussed in NS (March 2000), 16; J. Molecular Evolution 50 (2000), 82+. The ecological costs of sex are discussed in Nature 404 (2000), 281-5. A tool to remove markers is Zubko, E. et al. "Intrachromosomal recombination between attP regions as a tool to remove selectable marker genes from tobacco transgenes", NatBio 18 (2000), 442-5. Experiments to attempt to get gene transfer out of GM maize found it did not transfer, NS (25 March 2000), 4. The dangers of CaMV promoter in plants are discussed in NatBio 18 (2000), 363-4.

A comment on why the USA agreed to the Cartegena Biosafety Protocol is Splice 6 (March 2000), 6-7; and a criticism of the protocol is NatBio 18 (2000), 360. A call for a permanent international forum for debate of GM foods was called for after a OECD meeting in March, Nature 404 (2000), 112 (see Food section). On gene transfer, Science 287 (2000), 1927-8; and Bt crops debate, GeneWatch 13 (Feb. 2000), 3. On African biosafety, NS (19 Feb. 2000), 54. A review of issues is Paarlberg, R. "Genetically modified crops in developing countries: Promise or peril?"", Environment 42 (2000), 19-27. There is a need to have the debate for developing countries priorities, EST 34 (2000), 166A.

The control of biowarfare agents is discussed in NS (8 April 2000), 3; JAMA 283 (2000), 2035-7. Several book reviews on an anthrax outbreak in Russia related to biowarfare research are Nature 404 (2000), 543-4; NatMed. 6 (2000), 245. The US pentagon has defended its anthrax vaccination program, Lancet 355 (2000), 910. A sensor has been developed that can detect potential biological warfare attacks in seconds, SA (March 2000), 35. The WHO wants to set up labs to monitor new diseases to check whether they are result of biowarfare, NS (March 2000), 16-7. During World War II Cambridge University chemists volunteered for chemical war agent trials on themselves, Nature 404 (2000), 428-9. A bioweapon in the form of a fungi against cocoa, the source of cocaine, may be released in Colombia, NS (11 March 2000), 5.

Vaccines & Diseases

Four major US vaccine producers have agreed to donate US$150 million in vaccines towards the Global Vaccine Initiative, BMJ 320 (2000), 736, 952-3; NatMed. 6 (2000), 238; Lancet 355 (2000), 908. Financing is necessary, Lancet 355 (2000), 1269-70. Polio eradication is discussed in JAMA 283 (2000), 1553-4; Lancet 355 (2000), 559, 728. Health concerns over vaccination are discussed in SA (March 2000), 15-6; Vancouver Globe & Mail (11 April 2000), R6; BMJ 320 (2000), 929-32. There must be care that the level of thiomersal (Hg) is kept low, Lancet 355 (2000), 1279-80. The health consequences of exemptions in immunization laws are discussed in JAMA 283 (2000), 1140-42. There is still debate over the relationship between polio vaccine and origin of HIV, Nature 404 (2000), 9. Mutations in the a determinant of hepatitis surface antigen are being found in persons who are vaccinated, Lancet 355 (2000), 812. On long term protection, Lancet 355 (2000), 561-5. Pneumococcal vaccination can be cost effective in children, JAMA 283 (2000), 1460-8. An aerosol vaccination for measles has been found to be equally effective to the injection route, Lancet 355 (2000), 798-803. There are some other benefits of measles immunization given in BMJ 320 (2000), 938-40. An edible vaccine for pigs has been successful, NatBio 18 (2000), 367.

An oral vaccine against a brain protein has been tested that may be useful for epilepsy, Science 287 (2000), 1453-60; NS (4 March 2000), 9. Hybrid cell vaccination for renal cancer is reported in NatMed. 6 (2000), 252-3, 332-6; Lancet 355 (2000), 813. Identification of vaccine candidates against serogroup B Meningococcus have been identified after whole genome sequencing, Science 288 (2000), 1816-20. A report from the New York outbreak of West Nile fever in summer 1999 is SA (2000), 20-1; JAMA 283 (2000), 997-8. In general on vaccines, JAMA 283 (2000), 1280-1, 1339-40. Guidelines for vaccine use in Europe are discussed in Pharmeuropa 12 (2000), 309-311.

Malaria researchers hope for industry to join in the research, Science 287 (2000), 1956-7. The US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases is also helping, Nature 403 (2000), 696-7. In the flood in Mozambique there was disappointment that the government refused a plan to spray blankets with insecticide to curb the mosquito outbreak that is expected to bring malaria, NS (18 March 2000), 19. Research on malaria vaccines is discussed in NatMed. 6 (2000), 234, 241-4. Guinea worm has been eradicated from India, Science 287 (2000), 1917. In general on third world drugs, Science 287 (2000), 1571. On childhood illness in Africa, BMJ 320 (2000), 594-5. Drug resistant TB is spreading, Science 287 (2000), 2391; BMJ 320 (2000), 821. TB develops due to gene-environment interaction, Lancet 355 (2000), 588-9. On TB control lessons from the 1800s, Lancet 355 (2000), 1085-92. WHO is moving to work on more chronic diseases, NS (1 April 2000), 16-7. A letter on the meaning of socially defined diseases is Lancet 355 (2000), 1190.

A recent outbreak of Listeria in France has killed 7 persons, BMJ 320 (2000), 601. A book review of Farmer, P. Infections and Inequalities: The Modern Plaques (Univ. California Press 2000) is BMJ 320 (2000), 655. A review on retroviruses is BioEssays 22 (2000), 161-71. A review on Marburg and Ebola virus infections in laboratory non-human primates is Comparative Medicine 50 (2000), 108+.

Tests have revealed that German sausage does contain brain tissue, putting eaters at risk for BSE exposure, NS (4 March 2000), 7. France is setting up a BSE testing program, Nature 404 (2000), 327. All member states will need to set up programs, Lancet 355 (2000), 1252. Methods to detect scrapie before it mutates or causes CJD are reviewed in Science 287 (2000), 1906-8. In general on prion diseases, NEJM 342 (2000), 983; NatMed. 6 (2000), 258-9; Pharmeuropa 12 (2000), 48-52.

Some bacteria have been found to survive on hospital clothes for more than 3 months, NS (26 Feb. 2000), 5. Quick tests may help doctors decide which antibiotic to prescribe, NS (11 March 2000), 14. The environmental effects on mutations to ameliorate costs of antibiotic resistance are discussed in Science 287 (2000), 1479-82. A potential problem from GM farm animals and antibiotic resistances is discussed in NS (25 March 2000), 14. The use of genomics to search for new antibiotics is reviewed in Science 287 (2000), 1973-6. New drugs may be found from nature to kill drug-resistant bacteria, NS (8 April 2000), 15; and one drug levofloxacin has been licensed for use against penicillin resistant pneumonia, JAMA 283 (2000), 1679. Neonatal intensive care unit policies are discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 946-7, 973-8. Antibiotic cycling is being tested, Lancet 355 (2000), 992.

AIDS & Sexually Transmitted Diseases

The WHO blood safety initiative is questioned in Lancet 355 (2000), 1245. A UK study of 20000 units of blood found very low risk of infection, BMJ 320 (2000), 403-6. Three Japanese officials have been found guilty of negligence in Osaka district court for their role in HIV infections, Lancet 355 (2000), 816; Nature 404 (2000), 10; BMJ 320 (2000), 601. From 1996 to 1998 in Japan there were 15000 needlestick injuries reported among medical professionals, with 28 cases of hepatitis C confirmed, Mainichi Newspaper (19 April 2000), 3. A book review on the survival of the hemophilia community is NEJM 342 (2000), 666-7.

On the US effort to eliminate syphilis, JAMA 283 (2000), 1555-6. In Morocco STDs are thought to be a women�fs problem, SSM 50 (2000), 1369-83. A Spanish doctor is thought to have caused 171 hepatitis C infections, Lancet 355 (2000), 818. Electric razors are a potential vector for viral hepatitis, NEJM 342 (2000), 744-5. On STD research, Lancet 355 (2000), 1275-6; and school screening, Lancet 355 (2000), 864.

Research ethics in Uganda have been questioned during a HIV transmission study, Science 288 (2000), 22-3. UNAIDS has released guidance points for HIV vaccine trials, NatMed. 6 (2000), 363. Deaths in a clinical trial of coviracil in South African HIV positive pregnant mothers have led to the trial being halted, Nature 404 (2000), 216, 695; Lancet 355 (2000), 558, 1167. The problems for HIV vaccines are discussed in NS (11 March 2000), 16-7. The mechanism of HIV and AIDS is discussed in Science 287 (2000), 1567, 2274-7; NatMed. 6 (2000), 235-6, 261-2, 365, 372, 475+; BMJ 320 (2000), 735; NEJM 342 (2000), 515-7, 970-2; JAMA 283 (2000), 1125, 1138-9, 1329-34; Lancet 355 (2000), 722-3, 1131-7, 1284. A study on hospital access is Weber, AE et al. "Determinants of hospital admission among HIV-positive people in British Columbia", CMAJ 162 (2000), 783-6.

Risks of contracting AIDS are discussed in SSM 50 (2000), 1273-84; JAMA 283 (2000), 1175-82. The viral load is the chief predictor of transmission, NEJM 342 (2000), 921-9; Lancet 355 (2000), 1246. Letters on the stigma associated with HIV are Lancet 355 (2000), 659. Infected mothers have increased risk of HIV transmission when breast feeding, JAMA 283 (2000), 999-1000, 1167-74. A study in San Francisco gay men has suggested that in 7% of cases HIV may have been transmitted by oral sex, BMJ 320 (2000), 400; JAMA 283 (2000), 1279. The UN International Narcotics Control Board has condemned a Sydney plan to have a safe-heroin injecting room, BMJ 320 (2000), 667. In New York there has been a fall in HIV among injection drug users in the 1990s, AJPH 90 (2000), 352-9. A study on the notification of infectious diseases by Australian physicians is MJA 172 (2000), 325-8. There is a similar rate of HIV in indigenous Australians, but they have higher risk, MJA 172 (2000), 266-9. On male circumcision and risk of HIV, Lancet 355 (2000), 926-7. A book review on AIDS activism is in SSM 50 (2000), 1513.

Microbes & Pollution Remedies

The use of fluorescence to monitor bacteria in bioremediation is reported in Ripp, S. et al. �gControlled field release of a bioluminescent genetically engineered microorganism for bioremediation process monitoring and control�h, EST 34 (2000), 846-53, 162A; NS (11 March 2000), 20. A review of environmental biotechnology is TIBTECH 18 (2000), 19-21. Genomics is being used to monitor the environment, EST 34 (2000), 164-5A.

A new hydrogel has been developed that may be useful for oil slicks, NS (18 March 2000), 7. On the use of sludge treatment for soil conditioners, Bioresource Technology 73 (2000), 213-9. A combined method using sulfur-oxidizing bacteria and electrokinetics can be used to remove copper from contaminated soil, EST 34 (2000), 1081-7.

Environmental Issues

A book review of Redman, CL. Human Impact on Ancient Environments (Univ. Arizona Press 1999, 255pp., ISBN 0-8165-1963-3) is Science 287 (2000), 2427-8. A call for seeking peoples values is Fischhoff, B. �gInformed consent for eliciting environmental values�h, EST 34 (2000), 1439-44. A discussion of pragmatists and environmentalists is Harvard Law Review 113 (20000), 1421-47.

A view on the greenhouse effect is Sciboch, MA. & Ragavan, VRV. "Greenhouse effect: Chemists approach to this global issue", Convergence 1 (1999), 49-54. The melting of Greenland�fs ice is discussed in Nature 404 (2000), 551-2. In the UK a trial of feeding cows and sheep bacteria to convert methane to carbon dioxide to reduce emissions is discussed in NS (15 April 2000), 6. The need to reduce carbon emissions and carbon trading is discussed in EST 34 (2000), 114-5A, 176-82A, 184-7A. The drilling of holes to test past carbon levels is discussed in Nature 403 (2000), 714-5. Old ocen temperature data has shown that the oceans are in fact warming and thus delaying the warming in the atmosphere, Science 287 (2000), 2126-7.

Plankton may not be affected by the ozone hole in Antarctica yet, NS (19 Feb. 2000), 17. A study of the impact of El Nino on malaria in Tanzania found that despite 2.4 times higher rainfall, there was less malaria, Lancet 355 (2000), 989-90. However subarctic lakes do have altered UV exposure, Nature 404 (2000), 484-8. The Arctic ozone hole is growing, NS (25 March 2000), 24-8; and global warming may make it worse, Nature 404 (2000), 531. Nonpoint pollution is likely to become more common in the future as a source of environmental pollution, EST 34 (2000), 160A. Pollution suppresses rain, Science 287 (2000), 1763-4.

Environmental business is discussed in Time (April-May 2000), 82-3. The green bio strategy for environmental business is promoted in Japan, PharmaJapan 1688 (13 March 2000), 19. Sustainable consumption is discussed in Science 287 (2000), 2419. There is a need to make international trade agreements consistent with environmental and health protection, EST 34 (2000), 107-9A; BMJ 320 (2000), 580, 802-3. It has been found that Brazilian Indians may not be as green as they appear, Newsweek (27 March 2000), 23-8. Environmental problems in China are discussed in Ambio 28 (1999), 635-86. On the motivation to save the planet and Earth Day, Science 288 (2000), 1188-93. A discussion of a new NASA satellite for monitoring the Earth is SA (April 2000), 92-7.

A discussion of environmental estrogens is Ms. (April 2000), 48-51; EST 34 (2000),136-41A; NatMed. 6 (2000), 246-7; NatBio 18 (2000), 1162-3. Evaluation of the environmental and health impacts of pesticide use in the design of ecolabels is discussed in EST 34 (2000), 1456-61. Some organic farming waste can lead to harmful endotoxins on dust, NS (March 2000), 14. The making fresh air, EST 34 (2000), 541-5. Chemical hazards could be present in the backyard, Environment 42 (2000), 3. Outdoor garbage burning creates many dioxins, EST 34 (2000), 106-7A. On the use of water, Environment 42 (Jan 2000), 30-8. Urban benzene is a risk factor at home as well as from exhaust fuel, Nature 404 (2000), 141. A review of diesel emissions is EST 34 (2000), 729-40, 933-9. Efforts to remove sulfur from diesel fuel continue, EST 34 (2000), 161A. Transport issues in Australia are discussed in MJA 172 (2000), 230-2.

The health risks due to drinking radon in drinking water are reviewed in EST 34 (2000), 921-6. People who live in houses contaminated with cobalt-60 (in Taiwan) have increased chromosomal translocations, Lancet 355 (2000), 726. There has been a further negative report on Sellafield nuclear reprocessing plant in the UK, NS (26 Feb. 2000), 3, 18-9; Lancet 355 (2000), 1250. A book review on the dangers of nuclear factory fires is in NS (11 March 2000), 54. A book review on the development of India's nuclear bomb, Nature 403 (2000), 701-2. A book review from the US nuclear program is JAMA 283 (2000), 1621-2. There is concern about increased radiation doses in computed tomography, BMJ 320 (2000), 593-4. Instead of building new cell phone antennas it has been proposed to put them on top of existing electric pylons.

Biodiversity

New Canadian laws to protect endangered species include one million dollar fines for killing endangered plants or animals, Vancouver Globe & Mail (11 April 2000), A1, A7. An Australian has been jailed for removal of fossilized footprints, Nature 404 (2000), 4. In general on species extinction, Nature 403 (2000), 843-4; 404 (2000), 541. Papers on economic evaluation of biodiversity are in EST 34 (2000), 1381-1461; Splash, CL. "Multiple value expression in contingent valuation: Economics and ethics", EST 34 (2000), 1433-8. The question of siting of paper mills in pristine environments is discussed in EST 34 (2000), 546-51. A historical analysis of drug discovery is in Science 287 (2000), 1960-4. Hazel trees can also provide taxol, Science 288 (2000), 27-8. An interview with Ed Wilson is EST 34 (2000), 122-6A.

The question of what to conserve with limited resources is discussed in NS (26 Feb. 2000), 12. The priority is hotspots, Myers, N. et al. "Biodiversity hotspots for conservation priorities", Nature 403 (2000), 853-8. Scenarios for changes in biodiversity in the year 2100 are predicted in Science 287 (2000), 1770-4. It is said that private institutions cannot protect biodiversity alone, Nature 404 (2000), 120. Producer-decomposer codependency affects biodiversity, Nature 403 (2000), 762-4. Reliance on citation index undermines the study of biodiversity, Nature 403 (2000), 698. The fossil record reveals delayed recovery times of about 10 million years from extinction, Nature 404 (2000), 129-30, 177-80; see also p.122-3. It means that humans will not live to see the planet's fauna recover, NS (11 March 2000), 18. Plant species extinction is discussed in EST 34 (2000), 130-5A. A study finding that it took only 100 years to drive the 11 species of moa extinct in New Zealand is Holdaway, RN. & Jacomb, C. "Rapid extinction of the Moas (Aves: Dinornithiformes): Model, test, and implications", Science 287 (2000), 2250-53; 2170-1. Motorways are the last haven for some birds of prey, NS (4 March 2000), 19.

Ethics of fisheries are discussed in AIBA Newslink 3 (Feb. 2000), 1-2; also see this issue EJAIB 10 (May 2000). Climate variability is affecting North Sea Cod, Nature 404 (2000), 142. The use of robots will be used in fish conservation, NS (18 March 2000), 12. The question of the science of breaching dams to allow salmon to spawn is discussed in EST 34 (2000), 112A. In Portugal fishermen who take the large claw off male fiddler crabs and then return the crab, have led to altered sex balance, because the declawed males cannot attract females, NS (19 Feb. 2000), 5. The bleaching of coral is discussed in Nature 404 (2000), 142-3. Evidence for the decline of amphibian species is in Nature 404 (2000), 752-5. Sustainable use of hawksbill turtles is discussed in a book review in Nature 404 (2000), 704. On biological invasion, Science 287 (2000), 1762.

A policy discussion of extension of protected areas in Africa is Science 287 (2000), 1759-60. The debate over allowing some ivory trading continues, NS (8 April 2000), 20. Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana and Namibia have applied to the UN conference on endangered species to lift the ban. It has been found that there are actually two species of African elephant, NS (1 April 2000), 15. Human conflict in Congo threatens bonobos and gorillas, Science 287 (2000), 2386-7.

Animal Rights

Industry in the UK is asking for laws to stop animal rights economic terrorism, Financial Times (6 April 2000), 10. There have been complaints over the delays in animal license processing in the UK, Nature 404 (2000), 529. A comment on ethics is van Hoosier, GL. "Principles and paradigms used in human medical ethics can be used as models for the assessment of animal research", Comparative Medicine 50 (2000), 103-5.

A study has found goats were domesticated 10000 years ago, Zeder MA. & Hesse, B. "The initial domestication of goats (Capra hircus) in the Zagros mountains 10,000 years ago", Science 287 (2000), 2254-7. A review on the mind of a dog after domestication is NS (March 2000), 22-7. The question of number representation in animals is reviewed in American Scientist 88 (2000), 144-51.

Japan is continuing to attempt to down-list several whale species from their endangered status, Nature 404 (2000), 531-2. A study of diving mammals has revealed how they conserve energy, by intermittent locomotion, Science 288 (2000), 83-4.

Embryo splitting techniques allow production of cloned rhesus monkeys in larger numbers, NatBio 18 (2000), 135. There is a shortage of rhesus monkeys for AIDS experiments in the USA, Science 287 (2000), 1591. Protests have led to the closure of only primate breeding facility in the UK is reported in Nature 404 (2000), 215.Payment for labour in monkey communities is reported in Nature 404 (2000), 563. A new book is Goodall, J. Africa in my Blood. An Autobiography in Letters (Houghton Mifflin, 386pp.).

There are archaelogical signs from a Homo erectus site half a million years old in Japan that they built huts, NS (March 2000), 4.The study of ancient DNA from Neanderthals is giving clues that we lived together for many thousands of years, Nature 404 (2000), 127, 453-4, 490-3; Science 287 (2000), 2405; SA (April 2000), 98-107. The question of cognitive decline in aging is discussed in Nature 404 (2000), 125. On Art and the Brain, Nature 404 (2000), 123-4; and dreams, NEJM 342 (2000), 899-900. Intelligence is discussed in Science 287 (2000), 1395. Pain killers may need to be sex specific, BMJ 320 (2000), 536. Artificial life is discussed in NS (1 April 2000), 42-7.

Safety of Recombinant DNA Products

Analogues are reviewed in Vajo, Z. & Duckworth WC. "Genetically engineered insulin analogs: Diabetes in the new millennium", Pharmacological Reviews 52 (2000), 1-8. The question of giving insulin in the world's poor countries is reviewed in Lancet 355 (2000), 919-21. An implant has been developed that enzymatically coverts factor VII into factor VIIa, for blood clotting, NatBio 18 (2000), 264-5, 289-95; NS (11 March 2000), 7. The use of IGF-1 to treat acromegaly is reported in NEJM 342 (2000), 1210-11. Research to make a peptide to stop toxic shock syndrome is reported in BMJ 320 (2000), 958. TNF blockers have been used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, NEJM 342 (2000), 810-1; and Crohn's disease, Lancet 355 (2000), 858-9. A Cleveland study has found some patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with TPA developed intra-cerebral hemorrhages, JAMA 283 (2000), 1151-8; however another study found favourable outcomes, JAMA 283 (2000), 1145-50, 1189. On the global albumin industry, BMJ 320 (2000), 533. Interferon gamma 1b for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is discussed in NEJM 342 (2000), 974-5; and in Behcet's disease, Lancet 355 (2000), 605-9.

Detection methods have been developed so that horses treated with somatotrophin (growth hormone) will be found, NS (18 March 2000), 6. In Japan Sumitimo is trying to gain more market share for human growth hormome with a pen-type injecting product, PharmaJapan 1690 (27 March 2000), 8. The question of whether growth hormone can cause diabetes is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 589-90, 610-3.

Food safety

A Japanese translation of D. Macer's report from the Codex Ad Hoc Task Force on Novel Foods Produced from Biotechnology is in Asahi Science (May 2000), 106-7. There were minor protests at the meeting but a large police presence (see Japanese newspapers on 15 March 2000). The English version is in the on-line issue of EJAIB. Reports from the OECD meeting on GM food in March 2000 include NS (4 March 2000), 5; (15 April 2000), 3. A call for an impartial international panel to judge GM food safety is made in Nature 404 (2000), 109; NS (15 April 2000), 4.

The US National Research Council has released a report to say that GM foods are safe, Nature 404 (2000), 689, 693. On the Cartegena treaty (see also GMO regulation section) see SA (April 2000), 42-3. The precautionary principle leads to labeling including a "may contain" clause for genetically modified foods CMAJ 162 (2000), 874. The UK prime minister Blair has made a more cautious comment on GM food safety, Nature 404 (2000), 11. Also on GM food, Nature 404 (2000), 337; MJA 172 (2000), 148-9, 170-4; Lancet 355 (2000), 764, 931. Discussion of GM food labels in the USA continue, NatBio 18 (2000), 375.

The first GM fish for human consumption is being assessed by the FDA, produced by Aqua Bounty Farms Inc. (Nova Scotia, Canada). The question of bigger salmon is discussed in Time (March 2000). A case of mislabeling fish and fraud caught by the FDA is reported in FDA Consumer (March 20000), 35. Russian lupins may be a proven may to supplement animal feed instead of GM soybean, NS (11 March 2000), 11. The consequences of the increased preference for animal protein are discussed in NS (18 March 2000), 32-6.

Food safety is a growing health concern, JAMA 283 (2000), 1817. The safety of coffee is discussed in Amer. J. Clin. Nutrition 71 (2000), 403-4.

A paper asking why we treat obesity is Reidenberg, MM. "Are we treating health or physical appearance when we prescribe drugs for obesity?", Clin. Pharmacology & Therapeutics 67 (2000), 193-5. Papers on fatty acid consumption and health are in Amer. J. Clin. Nutrition 71 (2000), Supplement 169-400S. Plant sterol and stanol margarines are useful in prevention of heart disease, BMJ 320 (2000), 861-4. A review on the genetics of body weight regulation is Nature 404 (2000), 644-51. How the central nervous system alters food intake is reviewed in Nature 404 (2000), 661-71. Food habits are discussed in Amer. J. Clin. Nutrition 71 (2000), 3-5. Also on obesity, Nature 404 (2000), 631-4; AJPH 90 (2000), 340-3. Although leptin has not proven to be a wonder cure for obesity it is still the subject of much research, Nature 404 (2000), 538-40; Science 287 (2000), 1738-40. On diet, NS (18 March 2000), 26-31. A discussion of physician-patient discussion of diet is Amer. J. Clin. Nutrition 71 (2000), 6-12. Holiday weight gain may lead to long term gain, NEJM 342 (2000), 861-7. Prediction of the future of anorexia nervosa is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 721. Weight reduction in obese people with asthma increases lung function, BMJ 320 (2000), 827-32.

Cancer prevention through diet, including olive oil, is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 729. Antioxidants are discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 849, 1179-80. Dietary supplements are discussed in Amer. J. Clin. Nutrition 71 (2000), 399-400, 657. A dietary supplement of wheat bran fibre or fruits was found not to protect against recurrent colorectal adenomas, NEJM 342 (2000), 11149-55, 156-62. However some other studies suggest general benefits, Amer. J. Clin. Nutrition 71 (2000), 401-2. Cholesterol lowering can prevent strokes, BMJ 320 (2000), 459-60.

Disease Risks & Drugs

A study of mental stress and risk of heart attack is JAMA 283 (2000), 1800-2. Statins that protect against heart attack also make some men impotent, NS (18 March 2000), 20. Folic acid may be useful, Lancet 355 (2000), 511, 517-22. Guidelines on preventing cardiovascular disease are discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 659-61; 709-10. In general, NEJM 342 (2000), 746-7; Lancet 355 (2000), 668-9, 688-700, 1271-3. Gentle training is recommended for older hearts, Lancet 355 (2000), 629. On benefits of exercise, NEJM 342 (2000), 454-60, 502-5; Lancet 355 (2000), 515-6. Cycling may need a safer road environment, BMJ 320 (2000), 888. Heart disease is rising in central and eastern Europe, BMJ 320 (2000), 467.

A study has found estrogen does not help Alzheimer's disease, JAMA 283 (2000), 1007-15, 1055-6; Lancet 355 (2000), 727. An update on taxanes is Lancet 355 (2000), 1176-8. Italy is asking that drugs that have been on the market for 10 years be reassessed for their efficacy, Lancet 355 (2000), 732. Spain is altering their drug pricing policy and supermarkets have been trying to reduce prices of drugs, Lancet 355 (2000), 1081, 1166. Frequent paracetamol use has been linked to asthma in some people, Lancet 355 (2000), 1078. Letters on the Internet sale of Viagra are in NEJM 342 (2000), 740-1. Viagra also acts on the gut smooth muscle, Lancet 355 (2000), 631. A review of trials is Zivin, JA. "Understanding clinical trials", SA (April 2000), 69-75.

A survey of Australian oncologists' attitudes about non-traditional therapies used by cancer patients is MJA 172 (2000), 102-3, 110-3. [ed. One actually could say new medicine is not traditional!]. A controversial cancer therapy is discussed in Science 287 (2000), 2139-41.

Risk is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 723; Oxford J. Legal Studies 20 (2000), 109-30; EST 34 (2000), 1396-400. On public health in general and the US report Healthy People 2010, JAMA 283 (2000), 989-90; BMJ 320 (2000), 818-9. Letters on the HOPE study involving treatment of persons with diabetes with ramipril are discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 1181-3. There are still questions over whether CS gas is dangerous, BMJ 320 (2000), 458-9.

A WHO study on the global extent of depression is reported in Science 288 (2000), 39-40; also MJA 172 (2000), 100-1. A discussion of methods to discover new drugs for mental disorders is NatBio 18 (2000), 307-9. On definitions of health and disease in Africa, SSM 50 (2000), 965-83, 1353-68. Work stress is surveyed in Singapore in SSM 50 (2000), 1415-22.

A book review of Asthma in the Workplace is NEJM 342 (2000), 1145. A book review on asbestos-related deaths is NS (15 April 2000), 38. The global burden of injuries is reported in AJPH 90 (2000), 523-6. On work-related deaths, AJPH 90 (2000), 533-45. Hazards of paint-spraying are reported in Lancet 355 (2000), 896. A comment on the incidence of neural problems in former prisoners of war is Lancet 355 (2000), 843.

There was a significant increase in prescriptions of psychotropic medicines to pre-school children in the 1990s in the USA, JAMA 283 (2000), 1025-30, 1059-60; BMJ 320 (2000), 602. The US government is attempting to improve the situation for children who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Lancet 355 (2000), 1161; BMJ 320 (2000), 893; Newsweek (6 March 2000), 53. A WHO study on the health of children in 28 countries has been reported, BMJ 320 (2000), 402. Promotion of the health of children who are looked after is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 661-2.

A review on the ethics is Barnes, RE. "Reefer madness: Legal and moral issues surrounding the medical prescription of marijuana", Bioethics 14 (2000), 16-41. Illegal drugs are discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 656, 886-7; Lancet 355 (2000), 585; JAMA 283 (2000), 1303-10, 1887; MJA 172 (2000), 284-6; AJPH 90 (2000), 335-7. A possible link between underage drunk driving and later violent crime is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 933. A review of alcohol problems is Frank, JW. Et al. "Historical and cultural roots of drinking problems among American Indians", AJPH 90 (2000), 344-51. A brain steriod may be the reason why women and men have different consequences and recovery from drinking alcohol, NS (March 2000), 19. Antihistamines may impair driving as much as alcohol, Lancet 355 (2000), 905. On abuse of prescription drugs, JAMA 283 (2000), 1126-7. Abuse of androgens is discussed in MJA 172 (2000), 220-4. Helium has been linked to several strokes, so people should be careful of helium balloons and not inhale it, BMJ 320 (2000), 732.

A paper finding no danger is Janowsky, EC et al. "Meta-analysis of the relation between silicone breast implants and the risk of connective-tissue diseases", NEJM 342 (2000), 781-90. A report from the scientific panel that considered the risks is NEJM 342 (2000), 812-5. On the ethics of clinical research in plastic surgery, BME 155 (2000), 2. Constructions of masculinity are discussed in SSM 50 (2000), 1385-401. The use of testosterone supplements is debated in Time (24 April 2000), 40-6.

Smoking and weight gain is discussed in FoodToday 19 (March 2000), 1-2. Cigarettes are also not good for physical appearance, NS (15 April 2000), 18. The Australian government has been criticized for giving tax concessions to the tobacco industry, BMJ 320 (2000), 667. A California jury has awarded a dying smoker US$22 million in damages, BMJ 320 (2000), 957. The US Supreme Court in a 4:3 decision said that the government FDA cannot regulate the tobacco industry, BMJ 320 (2000), 894. Tobacco is being debated in Canadian courts, CMAJ 162 (2000), 1265; see also BMJ 320 (2000), 535. Australia and New Zealand are considering class action suits, Lancet 355 (2000), 1251. Also on the war against tobacco, NS (4 March 2000), 40-3; BMJ 320 (2000), 391-2, 397, 399, 417-8, 454; AJPH 90 (2000), 337-9; Lancet 355 (2000), 636, 1168, 1188-9; JAMA 283 (2000), 1686-7, 1958-60. Smoking has been linked to invasive pneumococcal disease, JAMA 283 (2000), 1426-7, 1469-75; NEJM 342 (2000), 732-4; Lancet 355 (2000), 993. Tobacco smuggling is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 531. A study of how the tobacco industry tried to seed the medical literature with positive articles is Lancet 355 (2000), 1197, 1253-9. Increased CYP2D6 activity may be a predictor of smoking addiction, Pharmacogenetics 10 (2000), 5-10.

Violence and health is discussed in AJPH 90 (2000), 553-9; Lancet 355 (2000), 1116-7; JAMA 283 (2000), 1137-8, 1198-1203. Bullying in school is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 612-3. Those students who use illegal drugs in Scotland are also more likely to carry weapons, BMJ 320 (2000), 982-4. A ban on carrying firearms in two Colombian cities led to reduced homicide rate, JAMA 283 (2000), 1205-9, 1193-5. A study of deaths in Victoria, Australia from Australian football found 25 between 1968-1999, MJA 172 (2000), 217-9. A criticism of civilian bombing in Serbia during the Kosovo war is Lancet 355 (2000), 587; and on the Iraqi trade sanctions, AJPH 90 (2000), 546-52.

Patenting & Business

A joint US/UK statement called for industry to make public "raw, fundamental data on the human genome. Including the human DNA sequence", NatBio 18 (2000), 365; Nature 404 (2000), 325, 424; Science 287 (2000), 1903, 2127. HUGO made a Statement on Patenting of DNA sequences - in particular response to the European Biotechnology Directive, in April 2000. HUGO has asked the US Patent Office to rescind any patent that does not specific the function of a DNA sequences and its potential uses, which is estimated to cover about 20,000 patent applications.

Critics are challenging Celera's claims that it finished the raw DNA sequencing on the human genome sequence, Nature 404 (2000), 691-2. Also on the access to genome projects (see the HGP section), Nature 403 (2000), 825; 404 (2000), 324-5; Science 287 (2000), 2396-8; Time (17 April 2000), 50. A review is Crespi, RS. "An analysis of moral issues affecting patenting inventions in the Life Sciences: A European perspective", Science and Engineering Ethics 6 (2000), 157-80. A discussion from an Indian perspective is Nair, AS. "Intellectual property rights (IPR): Indian scenario", Everyman's Science XXXIV (July-Sept. 1999), 58-61. The use of community gene banks to enforce farmer's rights is reported in Biotechnology & Development Monitor 41 (2000), 19-22. The Mexico-based Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre has accepted a need for patents, Nature 404 (2000), 534. Monsanto has announced the complete rice genome sequence and made it public, Nature 404 (2000), 534.

The European Patent Office has admitted a mistake in issuing a patent for cloning that could be interpreted to include human cells, NatBio 18 (2000), 366; Science 287 (2000), 1567-9; Nature 404 (2000), 3; BMJ 320 (2000), 602. A discussion of the business of stem cells is Science 288 (2000), 1419-20; NatMed. 6 (2000), 237. A description of the new written description guidelines in the USA is NatBio 18 (2000), 461-2. Reform of the patent system is debated in Science 287 (2000), 1196-7, 1933-4.

The dispute between Roche and Promega over PCR continues, Nature 404 (2000), 7. Discussion of the Human Genome Sciences patent on CCR5 receptor for HIV is Nature 404 (2000), 322; Science 287 (2000), 1375-7. There are confusions in the reversal of the European Patent Office decision in the Plant Genetic Systems case, Nature 404 (2000), 13. A US court is testing the breadth of patent protection on proteins, like erythropoietin, Nature 404 (2000), 532. Another patent dispute is over transgenic mice patents, Nature 404 (2000), 319. Ed Southern won a court case against the US company Affymetrix on DNA microarrays, Nature 404 (2000), 697. Another dispute, on the Kauffman patent is discussed in NatBio 18 (2000), 373. Your research may even be patented without you knowing it, Science 287 (2000), 2399-401.

Despite controversies over patent disputes the US biotech industry is still growing, GEN 20 (1 March 2000), 29, 57. Biotech in Sichuan Province in China is reviewed in GEN 20 (15 March 2000), 17, 46, 77, 81; and in Israel, GEN 20 (1 March 2000), 14, 49. The Japanese Science and Technology budget increased 150% for fiscal year 2000. The need for more research and development in pharmaceutical industry is discussed in Science 287 (2000), 1952-3. A three way merger is discussed in NatBio 18 (2000), 376-7. On the issues of business ethics in medicine, Lancet 355 (2000), 857.

A survey of 20 members of Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association found 16 had set up an Ethics Committee by March 2000, PharmaJapan 1691 (3 April 2000), 18. The Fair Trade Council of the Ethical Drugs manufacturing Industry in Japan has said that companies should not offer money or goods to any officials, PharmaJapan 1694 (24 April 2000), 8-9.The questions of human rights abuses in international companies is discussed in Financial Times (6 April 2000), 3. A discussion of capitalism in science is Nature 404 (2000), 124. A supplement to Nature Biotechnology 17 (1999) is on Bioentrepreneurship, 42pp. The US is imposing tighter technology transfer rules, Science 287 (2000), 2138-9.

Birth Control

The reproductive rights of women with disabilities is discussed in Reproductive Freedom News IX (Feb. 2000), 1, 3. A review of US state laws on contraceptive equity is Reproductive Freedom News IX (Feb. 2000), 8-9. In the first 6 months of legalized open access to the low dose contraceptive pill in Japan there may have been 20-30,000 new users and 60-70,000 who switched from medium dose pills, PharmaJapan 1694 (24 April 2000), 7. Exposure to oral contraceptives may be associated with a higher lumbar spine bone mineral density, Am.J.O&G 182 (2000), 265-9. In the Netherlands, third generation contraceptives are half of prescriptions, despite warnings since 1995 that they may have some risk of venous thrombosis, Lancet 355 (2000), 635. Racial differences in Norplant use in the USA are discussed in SSM 50 (2000), 1297-308. A book review of Houppert, K. The Curse: Confronting the Last Unmentioned Taboo: Menstruation (NY: Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1999, US$24) is JAMA 283 (2000), 1623-3; see also, Lancet 355 (2000), 763, 922-4.

Safe male hormonal contraception is available, MJA 172 (2000), 254-5. Letters on the sexual health of boys and men are in BMJ 320 (2000), 643. The question of a male menopause is in BMJ 320 (2000), 858-61. A UK women who sued a condom manufacturer for a pregnancy that resulted from a split condom had her case turned down, Lancet 355 (2000), 560. A UK study finds general practices with younger doctors or more females end up with lower regional teenage pregnancy rates, BMJ 320 (2000), 842-5.

The number of new births in Japan in 1999 was 1,175,000, a record low making the net population increase 190,000 persons for the year. The Spanish population is expected to decrease by 9.4 million persons over the next 50 years according to a UN prediction, BMJ 320 (2000), 891. India aims to stabilize its population by the year 2045, and to reach one billion by 11 May, 2000, Lancet 355 (2000), 734. A study of Indian tribes finds a stronger anti-female bias present, SSM 50 (2000), 1333-51. On population growth, BMJ 320 (2000), 443.

The need for a scientific method for taking a census is reinforced in Science 288 (2000), 53. A discussion of the freedom of the new generation of young women in Japan is Newsweek (3 April 2000), 40-45. A book review of The Natural History of Rape, is Nature 404 (2000), 121-2.

In New Zealand carrots baited with contraceptives are being used to stop possums breeding, NS (4 March 2000), 18.

Embryo Status

A philosophical study of personhood is Eberl, JT. "The beginning of personhood: A Thomistic biological analysis", Bioethics 14 (2000), 134-57.

The 1997 abortion statistics in Canada suggest one abortion for every three live birth, Vancouver Globe & Mail (8 April 2000), A8. The abortion issue is being discussed in the US presidential campaign, Lancet 355 (2000), 1165. Adoption and abortion is discussed in letters in JAMA 283 (2000), 1565-7. A discussion of the export of anti-choice ideas from the USA is Ms. (April 2000), 28-31. A group called Youth Defence International is campaigning against abortion, Lancet 355 (2000), 1165. A book review of a 19^th century doctor Horatio Robinson Dyer who crusaded against abortion, BMJ 320 (2000), 880. The UK has announced guidelines to give faster and more efficient service for women seeking abortions, BMJ 320 (2000), 733.

Allegations of illegal sales of fetal tissue in the US lead to review of research, Lancet 355 (2000), 998; Nature 403 (2000), 694; Science 287 (2000), 1904-5. A US study has found that most women seeking abortion in the first trimester could accurately predict the duration of pregnancy, Lancet 355 (2000), 877-81. Limitations on the detection of human chorionic gonatrophin are being found, Lancet 355 (2000), 712, 733.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

;A series of papers on the ethical and scientific issues of stem cell research are in Science 287 (2000), 1397, 1417-46; NatMed. 6 (2000), 231. Patient voices are a powerful voice in promoting research. A book review on human cloning is SSM 50 (2000), 1167-8. Scientists are urged to be careful, Young, FE. "A time for restraint", Science 287 (2000), 1424. European views on the ethics are discussed in Lenoir, N. "Europe confronts the embryonic stem cell research challenge", Science 287 (2000), 1425-6. Stem cells may be useful against brain cancer, NS (15 April 2000), 5. Also see the section on Organ Transplants. A discussion of the protein that may determine if a cell will be a stem cell is NS (8 April 2000), 4; Nature Genetics 24 (2000), 372-6. A review of cells for tissue engineering is TIBTECH 18 (2000), 17-9; and for research, Thomson, JA. & Odorico, JS. �gHuman embryonic stem cell and embryonic germ cell lines�h, TIBTECH 18 (2000), 53-7.

;Japan introduced a bill to make a 5 year ban on human cloning, but to still allow stem cell research, Nature 404 (2000), 321; NatMed. 6 (2000), 239. However it did not have majority support in the Parliament so may not proceed, UK ethicists supported stem cell research, Nature 404 (2000), 697.

;A review is Garrison, M. "The technological family: What's new and what's not", Family Law Quarterly 33 (1999), 691-704. A paper on the questions faced by children born from ART is Woodward, S. "Whose child am I anyway?", Cambridge Alumini Magazine 29 (Lent Term 2000), 26-9. The gathering of sperm from the dead is discussed in Strong, C. "Ethical and legal aspects of sperm retrieval after death or persistent vegetative state", JLME 27 (Winter 1999), 347-58; plus pp. 359-65. Ethics of ovarian transplants are discussed in F&S 73 (2000), 443-6. A survey of embryo donation in the USA found it more often contemplated than performed, F&S 73 (2000), 215-20. Discussion of use of ICSI by a person with HIV is in HCR 30 (Jan. 2000), 23-5. Viagra can also help women conceive, NS (8 April 2000), 6.

;Results of the survey of Japanese IVF clinics has found that 40% implanted 4 or more embryos, and some clinics routinely use fetal reduction to overcome the problem of multiple pregnancies, Mainichi Newspaper (3 May 2000), 3, 23. Letters on limiting multiple births are in Lancet 355 (2000), 1103-4. The German Chamber of Physicians has called for a relaxation on the rules that govern preimplantation diagnosis, Nature 404 (2000), 118. The Swiss population turned down a referendum that would have outlawed IVF by 75%, Nature 404 (2000), 221. In general on ethics and law of ART, F&S 73 (2000), 447-52.

;A call for more research into the effects of IVF in the UK has been made, BMJ 320 (2000), 960. Letters on a Swedish IVF, Lancet 355 (2000), 844-7. Commercial surrogacy is being debated again in the UK, Brinsden, PR et al. "Treatment by in vitro fertilization with surrogacy: experience of one British centre", BMJ 320 (2000), 924-8, 928-9. The Italian Medical Association is challenging a court ruling that permitted a surrogate pregnancy to be overseen by a doctor, Lancet 355 (2000), 996. Sperm donors in the Netherlands will remain anonymous for a further two years, Lancet 355 (2000), 1249. Israel is investigating claims of illegal ova sales, Lancet 355 (2000), 633. The results of a Canadian and Japanese study of the role of fathers is SSM 50 (2000), 1257-72. A study on the increased mortality risk for lone mothers is Lancet 355 (2000), 1203, 1215-9.

;An Australian sued a London IVF clinic alleging that they used his sperm without permission, BMJ 320 (2000), 464. The case has been settled. The dispute in Nottingham over IVF services has come to discussion of reimbursement of medical service fees, Lancet 355 (2000), 817. A US physician was fired over an embryo mixup, Nature 404 (2000), 326.

;Poor oocyte quality is an indication for ICSI, F&S 73 (2000), 465-9. Use of frozen sperm allows better timing for ICSI, F&S 73 (2000), 453-8. On male infertility, F&S 73 (2000), 435-42.

;

Fetal Environment & Neonates

A review of fetal protection in Wisconsin child abuse law is JLME 27 (Winter 1999), 332-47. The question of fortifying baby food with DHA and AA fatty acids is discussed in NS (18 March 2000), 16-7. A survey in Christchurch New Zealand found 62% of women used folic acid at some stage of pregnancy but only 17% had taken preconceptually, NZ Medical J. 112 (1999), 463-5. Letters on neural tube defects are in NEJM 342 (2000), 1135-7. A Bolivian study on the influence of intergenerational education on women�fs health behaviour is SSM 50 (2000), 1189-96. The results of a 12 year maternal PKU study are in Am. J.0&G. 182 (2000), 326-33. A study of birthweight and mortality is in BMJ 320 (2000), 647-8, 839-41. On anti-depression medications, JAMA 283 (2000), 1139. Semen from workers exposed to hydrocarbons is damaged, F&S 73 (2000), 221-8. A study of the effect of economic sanctions on mortality of Iraqi children is AJPH 90 (2000), 546-52.

A book review of The Tragedy of Childbed Fever, is NS (March 2000), 52-3. Breast feeding was banned on 6 April, 2000 from the British Parliament on grounds eating was not allowed. Nestle has been accused of breaking the international code on promoting bottled milk, BMJ 320 (2000), 468. A Turkish study found women dissatisifed with C-section, SSM 50 (2000), 1227-33. An Irish case involving home births is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 1084. A book review on circumcision is Lancet 355 (2000), 1107. On pain in neonates, Lancet 355 (2000), 932-3.

The relationship between finger-length ratios and sexual orientation is discussed in Nature 404 (2000), 455; NS (1 April 2000), 5. Finger length is a measure of prenatal exposure to testosterone. Sickness and sex of the child is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 756. Neglect of premature babies may be a cause for delayed language difficulties, NS (1 April 2000), 18. Neonatal screening for hearing impairment is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 413-4. Recognition of television images is one measure of development in young children, BMJ 320 (2000), 836-8. The risks of suffocation and SIDS are discussed in AJPH 90 (2000), 527-31.

Carriers of the G protein beta3 subunit b25TT genotype are at higher risk for obesity and post-pregnancy weight retention if they do not exercise properly, Lancet 355 (2000), 1201, 1240-2. Humour is a result of childhood not genes, NS (15 April 2000), 13.

Genetic Disease Markers

A review on assessing the risks of breast cancer is NEJM 342 (2000), 564+. Phosphylation of BRCA1 regulates the DNA damage response, Nature 404 (2000), 201-4. On p53, Science 287 (2000), 1765-6; Nature 404 (2000), 24-5, 42-9; Nature Cell Biology 2 (2000), E48-50. Interleukin-1 polymorphisms are associated with risk of gastric cancer, Nature 404 (2000), 398-402. A review of detecting low penetrance genes in cancer is JMG 37 (2000), 161-7.Breast cancer guidelines in Australia are discussed in MJA 172 (2000), 196-7. Use of stem cells for breast cancer therapy is discussed in NEJM 342 (2000), 1069-76; Lancet 355 (2000), 942-5, 999+, 1101+. In general on genetics and cancer, Lancet 355 (2000), 669-70, 716-9, 925; Pharmacogenetics 10 (2000), 25-33; BMJ 320 (2000), 424-7, 474-9; Int. J. Cancer 89 (20 March 2000), 105-202. Cancer research decisions in the UK are being examined by a Parliamentary committee, NatMed. 6 (2000), 360-1. On needs of patient information, BMJ 320 (2000), 909-13.

Presenilin mutants subvert chaperone function, Nature Cell Biology 2 (2000), E21-23. A study of apolipoprotein E and cognitive performance is Nature 404 (2000), 352-3. A review of Alzheimer�fs is Newsweek (20 March 2000), 46-51. Classification of dementias is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 626. Research on Alzheimer�fs is related to aging also, Nature 404 (2000), 120-1. On genetics and aging, Science 287 (2000), 2390, 2486-92; NS (1 April 2000), 4; JMG 37 (2000), 83-7; Nature Cell Biology 2 (2000), E23-4. Men are twice as likely to develop schizophrenia, Science 287 (2000), 2145; Lancet 355 (2000), 614-7. P300 is a state and trait marker in schizophrenia, Lancet 355 (2000), 771-2. A review of genetic studies in schizophrenia is NatMed. 6 (2000), 253-5.

25-hydroxycholecalciferol deficiency may lead to higher tuberculosis rate in Gujaratis, Lancet 355 (2000), 588, 618-21. The role of NAT2 deficiency in susceptibility to lung cancer in asbestos-exposed persons is discussed in Pharmacogenomics 10 (2000), 183-5. NPHS2 is mutated in autosomal recessive steriod-resistant nephrotic syndrome, Nature Genetics 24 (2000), 349-54. Risk factors for diabetes are discussed in NEJM 342 (2000), 905-12, 968-70.A review of inherited anaemias is Lancet 355 (2000), 1169-75. Thalassemia in Sri Lanka is reviewed in Lancet 355 (2000), 786-91. A review on genetics of hearing loss is NEJM 342 (2000), 1101+. On cytochrome P450 enzymes in the heart, Lancet 355 (2000), 945-6. Training of genetics in medicine is discussed in J. Molecular Diagnostics 1 (1999), 3-4. An obituary of James V. Neel is AJHG 66 (2000), 755-60.

Association studies of genetic polymorphisms and complex disease are discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 1277-8; TIBTECH 18 (2000), 22-6. A book review of Segal, NL. Entwined Lives: Twins and what they tell us about human behavior (Dutton Books, 1999, 416pp.) is NEJM 342 (2000), 902. A series of papers on sex determination and differentiation in humans is AJMG 89 (1999), 175-248. The dangers of genes that turn expression on or off are in NS (March 2000), 28-31. Genetic repair is reviewed in Nature Genetics 24 (2000), 325-6; BioEssays 22 (2000), 396-401. Robustness against mutations in genetic networks of yeast is reviewed in Nature Genetics 24 (2000), 355-61. DNA defects often target the centromere, Nature Cell Biology 2 (2000), E28-9.

Genetic Screening Methodology

;A new integrated test with blood serum screening and ultrasound is being used to predict Down syndrome risk in the UK, BMJ 320 (2000), 592-3, 606-10, 733. A false negative Down syndrome test seems to have little impact on parental adjustment 2-6 years after the birth, Hall, S. et al. �gPsychological consequences for parents of false negative results on prenatal screening for Down�fs syndrome: retrospective interview study�h, BMJ 320 (2000), 407-12. The value of routine antenatal screening in Australia is discussed in MJA 172 (2000), 311-2.

;Detection of mitochondrial DNA mutations is described, Science 287 (2000), 2017-9. Biochips are reviewed in Nature 403 (2000), 811-2. The question of whether a universal, public DNA microarray database is realistic is discussed in Nature 403 (2000), 699-700. Also on DNA arrays, NS (11 March 2000), 3; NatBio 17 (1999), 384-5. Use of GFP display to analyze mutations is reported in J. Biochem. 127 (2000), 627-33. SNP analysis by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry is reviewed in TIBTECH 18 (2000), 77-84.

;Papers discussing genetic testing for hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer include MJA 172 (2000), 308-9, 313-6; JAMA 283 (2000), 1129-30. The impact of mammographic screening on invasive breast cancer is reported in MJA 172 (2000), 203-6. Lung cancer screening may be possible, Lancet 355 (2000), 592; JAMA 283 (2000), 1948-9; and 200,000 women in the UK are being recruited into an ovarian screening trial, Lancet 355 (2000), 1028-9, 1082. A 30 minute cancer test may allow the results while the patient is still in the operating theater, Lancet 355 (2000), 1079.

DNA Fingerprinting & Privacy

;A review is Primorac, D. et al. "Application of forensic DNA testing in the legal system", Croatian Medical Journal 41 (2000), 32-46. A recent book is Long, Clarisa, Genetic Testing and the Use of Information, The AEI Press 1999, 6 chapters, 144pp. A hate mail author has been identified by DNA analysis, NatMed. 6 (2000), 364.

;President Clinton has outlawed genetic discrimination in federal jobs, BMJ 320 (2000), 468. The Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare has released a set of guidelines covering the transplantation and medical use of human cells and tissues, Nature 403 (2000), 819-20; 404 (2000), 529. Informed consent is required. The restrictions of US guidelines on research requiring specific consent with stored human cells and tissues have led to protests by some scientists, J. Molecular Diagnostics 2 (2000), 1-4; Nature 404 (2000), 114-5, 30. The protection of gene samples from population genetics is discussed in AJHG 66 (2000), 745-7. The US NIH and FDA have set up a database for new clinical trials, BMJ 320 (2000), 668.

;A paper exploring how autonomy may dominate future use of genetics is Moore, AD. "Owning genetic information and gene enhancement techniques: Why privacy and property rights may undermine social control of the human genome", Bioethics 14 (2000), 97-119. Bioinformatics and gene profiling is discussed in Science 287 (2000), 1221-2; NS (11 March 2000), 4. In general on privacy, SA (April 2000), 44-5; JAMA 283 (2000), 1564-5.

Ethics & Genetic Screening

;The question of control on genetics is addressed in Warnock, M. "Genetic research: Can we control it?", Science and Engineering Ethics 6 (2000), 147-56. A recent book is Young, Frank. E. Genetic Ethics; Do the ends justify the genes?1999 3 parts, 20 chapters, 291pp. The regulation of genetics is debated in Gavaghan, C. "Deregulating the genetic supermarket: Preimplantation screening, future people, and the harm principle", CQHE 9 (2000), 242-60; Aktan-Colllan, K. et al. �gEvaluation of a counselling protocol for predictive genetic testing for hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer�h, JMG 37 (2000), 108-13; Eccles, DM. Et al. �gGuidelines for a genetic risk based approach to advising women with a family history of breast cancer�h, JMG 37 (2000), 203-9. A feminist analysis is Anderson, GW. Et al. "Nursing and genetics: a feminist critique moves us towards transdisciplinary teams", Nursing Ethics 7 (2000), 191-204. A review is Mahowald, MB et al. �gGenetic counseling: Clinical and ethical challenges�h, Ann. Rev. Genetics 32 (1988), 547-59.

;The HUGO Ethics Committee has released a statement on Benefit Sharing from genetic research recommending companies to give 1-3% of net profit to humanitarian purposes (see May 2000 issue of EJAIB). A review of the Iceland gene database is Jonatansson, H. "Iceland's health sector database: A significant head start in the search for the biological grail or an irreversible error?", AJLM 26 (2000), 31-68; NS (19 Feb. 2000), 3. Guidelines for human genome research are being developed in Japan for government workers and university staff, PharmaJapan 1690 (27 March 2000), 11. A draft was released from the Human Genome Research Subcommittee of the Council on Science and Technology, PharmaJapan 1694 (24 April 2000), 16. The UK genetics commission is asking the general public for its views on a number of questions, see BMJ 320 (2000), 823.

;Eugenics is discussed in Iredale, R. "Eugenics and its relevance to contemporary health care", Nursing Ethics 7 (2000), 205-14; BMJ 320 (2000), 873. Human biology and social inequality is reviewed in SSM 50 (2000), 1169-70. A paper on research ethics is Reiss, MJ. "The ethics of genetic research on intelligence", Bioethics 14 (2000), 1-15. A discussion of genetics and aging is NS (25 March 2000), 21-3. On science under the Nazis, Science 287 (2000), 1929-30; Nature 403 (2000), 813; JAMA 283 (2000), 1486-7. Discussion of Jord Haider, a right wing politician, in Austria, is Lancet 355 (2000), 667. There is some talk of genocide in the sanctions upon Iraq, BMJ 320 (2000), 722. Sterilization is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 662-3; Lancet 355 (2000), 815.

;The ASHG/ACMG Statement on �gGenetic testing in adoption�h is in AJHG 66 (2000), 761-7. The psychological impact of gene testing for adult onset disorders is discussed in, MJA 172 (2000), 126-9. Testing for Alzheimer�fs is discussed in MJA 172 (2000), 339-43. On shared decision-making and non-directiveness in genetic counseling, JMG 37 (2000), 135-8. Additional papers on nursing and genetics are in Nursing Ethics 7 (2000), 215-61; together with a statement from the American Nursing Foundation, Scanlon, C. "A professional code of ethics provides guidance for genetic nursing", Nursing Ethics 7 (2000),262-8. A statement by the Council for Responsible Genetics on predictive testing is GeneWatch 13 (Feb. 2000), 2. A study by Mayo Clinic researchers found propyhlactic masectomy does reduce cancer risk in women with BRCA mutations, Lancet 355 (2000), 1245. In general on the benefits of genetics, BMJ 320 (2000), 933-5; Science 287 (2000), 1977-81.

Gene Therapy

;Following the review of gene therapy since the disclosure of deaths from the trials, the NIH and FDA will give greater scrutiny to adenoviral vector trials, HCR 30 (Jan. 2000), 6; GEN 20 (1 April 2000), 1, 28, 45; GeneWatch 13 (Feb. 2000), 1, 6-9; Bioethics Examiner 4 (Spring 2000), 1, 6; Nature 404 (2000), 5; Science 287 (2000), 1751: NS (18 March 2000), 5; Friedmann, T. "Principles for human gene therapy studies", Science 287 (2000), 2163-5; Nature Genetics 24 (2000), 201-2; NatBio 18 (2000), 123, 143-4, 377; Lancet 355 (2000), 560. The number of adverse effects reported from adenovirus trials increased a further 50%, to 970 adverse effects in 70 trials over 7 years, Nature 404 (2000), 119. The RAC in March 2000 meeting said that more animal data will be needed for future adenoviral trials. The FDA shut down gene therapy trials at the University of Pennsylvania after many lapses in their monitoring of trials, Nature 403 (2000), 820; Lancet 355 (2000), 997. Some other studies have also been put on hold, Lancet 355 (11 March 2000). The US government has been investigating also, NatMed. 6 (2000), 235. A report of HIV contamination of one gene therapy trial proved to be false, Lancet 355 (2000), 634, 733.

;A new book is Nordgren, A. ed., Gene Therapy and Ethics (Upsala 1999, ISBN 91-554-4640-X, 175pp.). It includes papers from a 1998 conference held in Uppsala, Sweden. A book review on genetic enhancement is in Bioethics 14 (2000), 93-5. A paper asking why we want to try genetic engineering of ourselves is Harris, J. "Intimations of immortality", Science 288 (2000), 59.

;The use of a DNA vaccine is reported in NS (25 March 2000), 9. Scientists at the Immune Response Corp. (USA) have synthesized a new gene for factor VIII that may be more suited for gene therapy of hemophilia, GEN 20 (1 March 2000), 6, 24, 56. The inhibition of experimental liver cirrhosis in mice by telomerase gene delivery is discussed in Science 287 (2000), 1253-8, 1258-62; Lancet 355 (2000), 630. VEGF gene transfer may be useful for ischemic peripheral neuropathy in rabbits, NatMed. 6 (2000), 405-13; NatBio 18 (2000), 368.

;The use of liposomes is reported in Domashenko, A. "Efficient delivery of transgenes to human hair follicle progenitor cells using topical lipoplex", NatBio 18 (2000), 420-3. The use of pressure to transfer DNA into cells is a new method, SA (March 2000), 34. Merck company has not agreed to extend a license to Baylor College to use a safe adenoviral vector in human clinical trials, Nature 403 (2000), 817. On use of suicide genes to kill cancer cells, NS (18 March 2000), 13. Gene therapy of experimental brain tumours in rats using neural progenitor cells is reported in NatMed. 6 (2000), 447+. Antisense therapeutics are reviewed in NatBio 18 (2000), 403-4. In general on gene therapy, Science & Medicine (Jan/Feb. 2000), 4-5.

Human Genome Project (HGP)

A new book from Eubios Ethics Institute is Macer, DRJ., ed., Ethical Challenges as we approach the end of the Human Genome Project, Eubios Ethics Institute 2000(ISBN 0-908897-15-4, 122pp., NZ$30) includes 11 papers from persons in different countries and traditions. An extensive review of the HGP is in Newsweek (10 April 2000), 32-44. A discussion of the future of sequencing DNA at home is Nature 404 (2000), 21. Also on the subject, book reviews of Ridley, M. Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters (HarperCollins 2000) are Newsweek (28 Feb. 2000), 41; SA (April 2000), 114-5.

;Critics are challenging Celera's claims that it finished the raw DNA sequencing on the human genome sequence, Nature 404 (2000), 691-2; Time (10 April 2000), 45; (17 April 2000), 50; Science 287 (2000), 2136-8. The relationship between the private and public genome projects is discussed in Science 287 (2000), 1723-5; NS (March 2000), 3 (also see Patenting and Business section). Despite attempts to join the Celera and public projects, an alliance did not emerge, Nature 403 (2000), 815-6; 404 (2000), 111, 117, 317. There is an investigation on whether any NSF grants were used to develop the DNA sequencing machines at Caltech that are now sold by Perkin Elmer, Science 287 (2000), 1374-5.

;The Drosophila genome sequence is finished due to a collaboration between UC Berkeley and Celera, Myers, EW. Et al. �gA whole genome assembly of Drosophila�h, Science 287 (2000), 2196-2204; 1374, 2173-4, 2181-4; Nature 404 (2000), 442-3;Nature Cell Biology 2 (2000), E53-4; Science 287 (2000), 2216-21; NatBio 18 (2000), 365; JAMA 283 (2000), 1554-5; Nature Genetics 24 (2000), 327-8. The worm C. elegans has an Internet site (www.wormbase.org). On comparative genomics, Science 287 (2000), 1777-82, 2204-15; NS (March 2000), 38-41. Genomic searching has led to better understanding of taste, Nature 404 (2000), 552-3.

;The bacteria Neisseria meningitidis A strain and B strains have been sequenced, Science 287 (2000), 1809-15; Lancet 355 (2000), 1163; Nature 404 (2000), 451-2, 502-6. The genome of Caulobacter crescentus has been sequenced, Science 288 (2000), 1572-3. Mouse sequencers are using a shotgun method, Science 287 (2000), 1179-81. A review of untapped resources in microbial genomes is TIBTECH 18 (2000), 14-6. High resolution linkage of the cytogenetic and physical maps of the human genome is reported in Nature Genetics 24 (2000), 339-40.

A review from the SNP consortium is Science 287 (2000), 1898-9. Pharmacogenomics is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 987-90; GEN 20 (15 March 2000), 1, 13, 39, 50, 74; PharmaJapan 1694 (24 April 2000), 1-4; Pharmacogenetics 10 (2000), 1-3. A report on functional genomics and the Novartis Genomics Institute is ACUMEN 1 (2000), 30-41. On functional genomics, Nature 404 (2000), 715-8. Proteomics is discussed in GEN 20 (1 April 2000), 15, 34, 49. Music software may be useful for genome sequencing, Nature 404 (2000), 694. On informatics, Science 287 (2000), 1951.

The role of the US Dept. of Energy in the genome project continues, Nature 404 (2000), 4, 222. Genomics is being developed rapidly in East Asia, NatBio 17 (1999), 278-9. Ontario has approved C$74 million for genome projects, Nature 404 (13 April 2000). The UK is planning to establish a partial population genetics database, NatMed. 6 (2000), 359-60.

The question of what linguistics tells us about human evolution is discussed in NS (26 Feb. 2000), 36-40. Irish origins have been mapped using the Y chromosome, Nature 404 (2000), 351. A review of the distribution of human genetic diversity is AJHG 66 (2000), 979-88. Sunny days were the best for preserving ancient DNA in resin, NS (19 Feb. 2000), 23. Stony tools have revealed Homo erectus were making tools at 803,000 years ago from cobbles the result of a meteorite in southern China, Science 287 (2000), 1566-7.

General Medical Ethics

;The issues of human rights and the untouchables in India are discussed in papers in Dharma Deepaka 3 (Dec. 1999), 2-58. On medical ethics in India, AIBA Newslink 3 (Feb. 2000), 1-2. A discussion of measures to combat poverty in Croatia are in Croatian Medical Journal 41 (2000), 28-31. A review of Non-Zero is NS (15 April 2000), 36-7. Recent books include Lakoff, George and Johnson, Mark. Philosophy in the Flesh, Basic Books 1999, 4 parts, 25 chapters, 624pp; The Second Asian Bioethics Seminar, Global Bioethics from Asian Perspectives 11, Comprehensive study on East Asian Culture Project, Nihon University 2000, 127pp. Results of a survey in Singapore are, Chan, D. & Goh, LG. "The doctor-patient relationship: A survey of attitudes and practices of doctors in Singapore", Bioethics 14 (2000), 58-76.

;Letters on communicating prognosis in breast cancer are in MJA 172 (2000), 241; and on the doctor-patient relationship, BMJ 320 (2000), 526-7; SSM 50 (2000), 1514; Lancet 355 (2000), 1283; BMJ 320 (2000), 874. Assessing patients views of clinical changes are discussed in JAMA 283 (2000), 1824-5. The President of Japan Medical Association announced that JMA intends to �gissue concrete policy proposals and play a leading role�h in radical reform of the healthcare system, and on 1 January 2000 the JMA introduced voluntary guidelines were patients receive full information about their diseases and the treatments they receive, PharmaJapan 1681 (24 Jan. 2000), 10, 12. The question of trust in Japanese doctors is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 995. In the US the National Library of Medicine is helping consumers use online health data, JAMA 283 (2000), 1675-7. Counseling after a sudden death is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 665.

;On the role of consensus in bioethics debate JLME 27 (Winter 1999), 316-331. Bioethics often takes the centre view between different approaches, HCR 30 (Jan. 2000), 22-9. Moral teaching from social sciences is reported in HCR 30 (Jan. 2000), 7-11, 12-21. In general on medical ethics, CMAJ 162 (2000),1147, 1338; Williams, JR. "Ethics and human rights in South African medicine", CMAJ 162 (2000), 1167-70; Purdy L. "Empowerment or Danger?" Forum for Applied Research and Public Policy (Spring 2000), 59-64; Ethics 110 (2000), 434-6; Paul, C. �gInternal and external morality of medicine: lessons from New Zealand�h, BMJ 320 (2000), 499-503; JAMA 283 (2000), 1881-4. On Mill�fs proof of the principle of utility, Ethics 110 (2000), 282-310.

Thoughts from 6 years experience on a UK ethics committee are in BME 155 (2000), 13-9. On ethics of clinical trials, NEJM 342 (2000), 978-9. A survey of Danish doctors on the contents of medical oaths is in BME 154 (2000), 13-6. The limits to the German bioethics inquiry are discussed in Nature 404 (2000), 692.

Ethical issues in treatment of mental health, including Prozac, are discussed in HCR 30 (Jan. 2000), 7-22, 31-40. Patient attitudes to psychiatric hospital admission are discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 594. Stress in healthcare professionals is surveyed in Lancet 355 (2000), 533-7. The use of physical restraints in medical emergencies is discussed in NEJM 342 (2000), 742-4. A call to change enforced bedrest to enforced activity is in Lancet 355 (2000), 844. A book review on medical emergencies is NEJM 342 (2000), 826-7.

Gender disparity is discussed in SA (April 2000), 30. On average half the Asian and Pacific Islanders, 40% of the white, and 20% of the black persons in the USA obtain Bachelor�fs degrees, SA (March 2000), 24. Medical education is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 393-4, 432-5; and medical education in Iraq, Lancet 355 (2000), 1093-4. The ethics of the Kosovo war is discussed in JAMA 283 (2000), 1200.

Law & Medical Ethics

An analysis of the ethics at Nuremberg is Pellegrino ED. & Thomasma, DC. "Dubious premises - Evil conclusions: Moral reasoning at the Nuremberg trials", CQHE 9 (2000), 261-74. A briefing on international research ethics is Bioethics 14 (2000), 158-72. A discussion of women's rights in the US Patient Bill of Rights is AJLM 26 (2000), 89-108. The Medical Research Act 1999 of Finland is in BME 155 (2000), 7-11. A document from the UK Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health "Safeguarding informed parental involvement in clinical research involving newborn babies and infants", BME 154 (2000), 8-11. Research responsibility in developing countries is discussed in NEJM 342 (2000), 967-9. On the future of the Helsinki Declaration, HCR 30 (Jan. 2000), 6; MJA 172 (2000), 252-3, 292-5. Human rights are discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 838, 840, 1167, 1285; SSM 50 (2000), 1171-5.

;There has been support and criticism of the IOM report on medical error, Kohn, LT. et al. To err is human: building a safer health care system. (National Academy Press, 2000); see JAMA 283 (2000), 1742-3; Lancet 355 (2000), 994; NEJM 342 (2000), 1123-4; BMJ 320 (2000), 465, 597; Probe VIII (1 March 2000), 1, 4-6. They estimated that between 44-98,000 persons die each year from medical mistakes. A review is Mohr, JC. �gAmerican medical malpractice litigation in historical perspective�h, JAMA 283 (2000), 1731-7. The cost of malpractice insurance is increasing in Canada, BMJ 320 (2000), 601. A call for public release of performance data is JAMA 283 (2000), 1866-74, 1884-6. Reducing medication errors is discussed in papers in CMAJ 162 (2000), 1150-1; BMJ 320 (2000), 725-730, 737-796; Lancet 355 (2000), 932, 947-8; JAMA 283 (2000), 1287-9. A German case involving 300 unnecessary masectomies is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 597. A study of mistakes in child heart surgery is Lancet 355 (2000), 1004-7.

;A paper from a UK law case is Stauch, M. �gTaking the consequences for failure to warn of medical risks�h, Modern Law Review 63 (2000), 261-8. An Australia case, Chappel v. Hart is reviewed in MJA 172 (2000), 134-6. The epidemiology of medical error is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 774-6. A US study found that eliminating compensation for pain and suffering from whiplash injury leads to improved prognosis and decreased incidence of whiplash!, NEJM 342 (2000), 1179-86. A UK survey has found doctors are too optimistic in prognosis for terminally ill patients, Christakis, NA. & Lamont, EB. �gExtent and determinants of error in doctors�f prognoses in terminally ill patients: prospective cohort study�h, BMJ 320 (2000), 469-73.

Discussion of the UK General Medical Council is in BME 154 (2000), 1; BMJ 320 (2000), 466, 822, 890. A review of one response to medical error is Flood, CM. "New Zealand's no-fault accident compensation scheme: Paradise or panacea?", Health Law Review 8 (Winter 1999/2000), 3-10. Liability for quality of medical care is discussed in AJLM 26 (2000), 7-30, 69-88. Letters on the reasons why physicians do not always follow clinical practice guidelines are in JAMA 283 (2000), 1685; MJA 172 (2000), 287-91. On the role of scientific experts in court, Lancet 355 (2000), 1077. The Dr. Shipman murder case in the UK is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 401; and the Dr. Swango case in NEJM 342 (2000), 1057.

Scientific Ethics

A US survey conducted by Harvard University found 13% of more than 2000 biomedical researchers questioned said they had been refused when they asked a colleague to share data, NatMed. 6 (2000), 365.

The New England Journal of Medicine has admitted that despite tough rules on conflict of interest for authors, it often breaks them, NEJM 342 (2000), 586-7;Science 287 (2000), 1573. A call to thank authors and peer reviewers is JAMA 283 (2000), 2016-7. Peer review is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 660.

A South African cancer researcher has been fired over alleged fraud in clinical trials, Science 287 (2000), 1901-2; BMJ 320 (2000), 398; Lancet 355 (2000), 553, 942-3, 1011. A University of Arizona case in which a scientist was fired for alleged misconduct is discussed in Science 287 (2000), 1183-4. A UCSF whistle blower has alleged gender discrimination, NatMed. 6 (April 2000). In general on misconduct, BMJ 320 (2000), 803-4.

Euthanasia & Terminal Care

A review of US state DNR laws is Sabatino, CP. "Survey of state EMS-DNR laws and protocols", JLME 27 (Winter 1999), 297-315. A proposal is Truog, DR. et al. �gPharmacologic paralysis and withdrawal of mechanical ventilation at the end of life�h, NEJM 342 (2000), 508-11. On the ethics of elective ventilation, Bioethics 14 (2000), 42-57. Refusal of life-prolonging therapy in anorexia nervosa is assessed in Bioethics 14 (2000), 120-33. The force feeding of a a UK prisoner has been declared lawful, BMJ 320 (2000), 731. Tube feeding of patients with advanced dementia is discussed in JAMA 283 (2000), 1563-4.

A report from 33 persons who died under the Oregon law in 1999 is Sullivan, AD. Et al. �gLegalized physician-assisted suicide in Oregon �\ The second year�h, NEJM 342 (2000), 598-604, also pp. 557-63, 654-6, 1049-50. A Dutch report has found that technical difficulties occur in about one fifth of the cases of physician assisted suicide, Groenewoud, JH. Et al. �gClinical problems with the performance of euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide in the Netherlands�h, NEJM 342 (2000), 551-6, 583-4; Lancet 355 (2000), 811. In general on euthanasia in UK following the consideration of a bill, BME 154 (2000), 3-4; 155 (2000), 3-6, 21-4. A change in France�fs law on euthanasia has been proposed for exceptional cases, Lancet 355 (2000), 909. Hong Kong is debating euthanasia, Lancet 355 (19 Feb. 2000). On withdrawal of treatment, JAMA 283 (2000), 1061-7. A discussion is Parks, JA. "Why gender matters to the euthanasia debate. On the decisional capacity and the rejection of women�fs death requests", HCR 30 (Jan. 2000), 30-6.

Public policy on pain is discussed in NEJM 342 (2000), 1211-3. On spiritual issues at the end of life are discussed in HCR 30 (Jan. 2000), 28-30. The will to live is discussed in NS (11 March 2000), 50-1; Lancet 355 (2000), 847-8. Dying patients may not have depression, Lancet 355 (2000), 554. On long-term care, BMJ 320 (2000), 589. Advance directives are discussed in JAMA 283 (2000), 1437-44, 1481-2. Cancer in children is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 644-5; and grief in the care giver, NEJM 342 (2000), 523. Prognosis is discussed in NEJM 342 (2000), 522; BMJ 320 (2000), 895-8.

Organ Transplants & Brain Death

The UK government will not accept any conditions on organ use by donors or relatives, BMJ 320 (2000), 534; Lancet 355 (2000), 765. A discussion of liver allocation is CQHE 9 (2000), 275-83. A call for higher organ procurement rates in the UK is BMJ 320 (2000), 872. The www is helping organ donation, Lancet 355 (2000), 762. Since 1988 there has bee improved survival of kidney grafts, so that the 1996 one year survival is 94% from living donors and 88% from cadaveric donors, and the half life is 22 and 14 years respectively, NEJM 342 (2000), 605-12, 647-8. The risks of live kidney donation are discussed in Time (27 March 2000), 50. The new journal ACUMEN from Novartis includes some reports from the World Transplant Games, ACUMEN 1 (2000), 1-9, 20-24, 42-45. Blockage of the IL-2 receptor with a monoclonal antibody has reduced heart rejection, NEJM 342 (2000), 613-9.

In the UK relatives may have to be told if organs are retained for postmortem exams, BMJ 320 (2000), 821; Lancet 355 (2000), 1083. On Irish guidelines, Lancet 355 (2000), 635. Letter on ownership of dialysis facilities and patient survival are NEJM 342 (2000), 893-4, 1053-6. The economics of HLA matching are discussed in NEJM 342 (2000), 820-1. Cure of deafness is discussed in SA (March 2000), 27. On artificial vision, Lancet 355 (2000), 1080. Heart transplantation in Down syndrome is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 816-7. Total knee replacements have longer survival now, BMJ 320 (2000), 820. A report of pediatric living twin intestinal transplants is Lancet 355 (2000), 723-4.

Tissue generation is hoped from Reubinoff, BE. Et al. �gEmbryonic stem cell lines from human blastocysts: somatic differentiation in vitro�h, NatBio 17 (1999), 399-404. Fetal neuron grafts may be extended to stem cell therapies, Science 287 (2000), 1421-2; NatMed. 6 (2000), 271-7, 369-70. Spinal cord repair may be possible, NatMed. 6 (2000), 382-3. In general on the use of stem cells, GEN 20 (1 April 2000), 16, 52. Transplanted pancreatic stem cells can reverse diabetes in mice, BMJ 320 (2000), 736. Prevention of acute liver failure in rats with reversibly immortalized human hepatocytes is reported in Science 287 (2000), 1185-6, 1258-62. Hepatocyte transplantation into a mouse model of toxin-induced liver disease is reported in NatMed. 6 (2000), 320-6. Retinal stem cells have been found in adult mice eyes, Science 287 (2000), 2032-6. Reversal of diabetes in mice with islets generated in vitro from stem cells is reported in NatMed. 6 (2000), 278-82. Bone stem cell transplants are discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 1199, 1231-7. On tissue engineering, NatBio 17 (1999), 508; Science & Medicine (Jan. 2000), 6-7.

In Japan peripheral stem cell transplantation will be covered under national medical insurance, PharmaJapan 1686 (28 Feb. 2000), 13. The seventh brain dead donor gave organs in Japan in April, 2000. The organs from the 5^th brain dead donor were transplanted into 7 patients across Japan.

Letters on xenotransplants are in BMJ 320 (2000), 868-9. Five cloned pigs (see Animal Genetic Engineering section) have been made that are potential organ donors, NS (25 March 2000), 5; BMJ 320 (2000), 826. Use of xenografts I Parkinson�fs disease are promising, Lancet 355 (2000), 991; Neurology 54 (2000), 1042-50. Reviews are in Ann. Rev. Med. 49 (1998), 301-10; Ann. Rev. Immunol. 16 (1998), 433-70.Comparative analysis of genetic modifications designed to reduce human serum-mediated cytolysis is Xenotransplantation 6 (1999), 6-16. A review of 44 African wild animals for their carbohydrate epitopes is Xenotransplantation 6 (1999), 79-89. Extracorporeal connection of pig kidneys to humans has been tried, Xenotransplantation 5 (1998), 176-83. A study comparing mechanical and bioprosthetic heart valves is JAMA 283 (2000), 1947-8. A Japanese company BioQuest hopes to commercialize an artificial pancreas by 2005, PharmaJapan 1690 (27 March 2000), 19.

Health Costs

;A series of papers on organization ethics and health care are in CQHE 9 (2000), 145-241. On ethics of health care costs CQHE 9 (2000), 284-90. New Zealand�fs pharmaceutical reference pricing strategy is debated in Lancet 355 (2000), 558. A comment to end waiting-list mismanagement is CMAJ 162 (2000), 1297-301, 1305-11. A survey of the waiting times for cancer patients in the UK is BMJ 320 (2000), 838-9. Health spending in the UK will rise to 7.6% of GDP in order to fund the NHS in the UK, BMJ 320 (2000), 461-3, 865-9, 889, 961; Lancet 355 (2000), 815. Self-care is important, BMJ 320 (2000), 596. Rationing in the Netherlands is reviewed in MJA 172 (2000), 329+. A book review on the Cuban health care system is Lancet 355 (2000), 1191-2; and on Lebanese medicine, Lancet 355 (2000), 907. On managed care, JAMA 283 (2000), 1976-82; Lancet 355 (2000), 1027; NEJM 342 (2000), 1140-1.

;A survey of views of the poor on how they pay for health care is American Anthropologist 101 (2000), 761-82. Poverty and health is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 453, 898-902; JAMA 283 (2000), 1069-70. Racism is discussed in BMJ 320 (2000), 657; NEJM 342 (2000), 1094-1100, 1045-7; Lancet 355 (2000), 906. Physical access to health care in Bolivia is surveyed in SSM 50 (2000), 1177-88.

;The question of liability of insurance companies under the Americans with Disabilities Act, California Law Review 88 (2000), 607-51. Unsupervised nurses may soon give anesthetics in the USA, BMJ 320 (2000), 959. On nursing priorities, Lancet 355 (2000), 1111. Japan may allow foreign nurses to look after the elderly, BMJ 320 (2000), 825. The question of when to send the elderly home is discussed Canadian Nurse (March 2000), 27-30. The length of stay after heart attack is discussed in NEJM 342 (2000), 749-55, 808-9. Health care services for low-incidence anomalies are often insufficient or unfunded, MJA 172 (2000), 201-2. A survey found a third or more of US physicians manipulate the reimbursement rules for patients, JAMA 283 (2000), 1858-65, 1881.

;A comparison of health and wealth of nations is Science 287 (2000), 1207-9. A new book is Flood C. International Health Care Reform: A Legal, Economic, and Political Analysis. London: Routledge, 2000. A book review on Pricing Life is NEJM 342 (2000), 1059-60.

Internet Sites

;A new resource that is on-line is www.humgen.montreal.ca, the Genetics and Society Project.

;A series of papers on computer ethics are in Science and Engineering Ethics 6 (2000), 205-64. A paper in Chinese on net morality is in the Newsletter Center for Applied Ethics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences 2 (Dec. 1999), 1-3.

;The back issues of 83 life science issues will become free on-line through HighWire Press, Nature 404 (2000), 117. Guidelines on providing ethical information are in JAMA 283 (2000), 1600-6, 1677-8. The question of a disease called Internet addiction is discussed in Lancet 355 (2000), 632. There are some hazards from translation of non-English abstracts in Medline, Lancet 355 (2000), 1280. The ownership of news is debated in JAMA 283 (2000), 992.