Eubios News in Bioethics & Biotechnology - September 2003
Eubios Journal
of Asian and International Bioethics 13
(2003), 194-202.
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+) is
available on-line topic-by-topic, at: http://eubios.info/NBB.html
Abbreviations
Genetic Engineering of Plants
Genome-wide insertional mutagenesis of
Arabidopsis
thaliana is reported in
Science 301
(2003), 653-7. A summary of the collection and annotation and mapping of 28,000
cDNA clones from
japonica rice is in
Science 301 (2003), 376-9. Progress in the maize map is
discussed in
Nature 424 (2003),
476. Hybrid plants are important in the evolution of plants,
NS (16 Aug. 2003), 12-3. On plant polyploidy,
Heredity 91 (2003), 91-2. Stem cells in plants are discussed
in
Cell 113 (2003), 281-3.
The herbicide glyphosphate may make plants more vulnerable
to fusarium fungi according to some lab. studies,
NS (16 Aug. 2003), 3, 6. Control of seed
germination
in transgenic plants has been achieved by a 2 component genetic system,
PNAS 100 (2003), 6855-9. Fitness effects of transgenic
disease resistance in sunflowers are reported in
Science 300 (2003), 1250.
Genetic Engineering of Animals
Advances in mammalian
cloning are discussed in GEN 23 (1 April 2003), 17-8, 68;
Reproduction 126 (2003), 1-11. A mule can now reproduce, thanks
to cloning, Woods, GL. Et al. "A
mule cloned from fetal
cells by nuclear transfer",
Science
301 (2003), 1063. A review is Gurdon, JB & Byrne, JA, "The first
half-century of nuclear transplantation",
PNAS 100 (2003), 8048-52. A cloned
horse
foal could be born from its cloned surrogate horse,
Nature 424 (2003), 635. A new method for introducing
transgenes in sperm is discussed in
Nature 424 (2003), 604. On the cow genome project, Nature 424 (2003), 606.
A functional
dystrophin
has been made by skipping the mutated exon in mdx dystrophic mice, NatMed.
9 (2003), 1009-14. RNA trans-splicing can repair phenotype of hemophilia A,
NatMed. 9 (2003), 1015-9. VEGF modifies ALS in mice and
humans,
NatGen 34 (2003), 38+. A
plan for create a thousand new inbred strains of mice is discussed in
Science 301 (2003), 456-7. NPAS2 deficient mice have altered
patterns of sleep,
Science 301
(2003), 279-83. Notch mutant mice have learning and memory deficits,
Current
Biology 13 (2003), 1348-54. Impaired pain
responses in mice lacking an inducible prostaglandin E synthase are reported in
PNAS 100 (2003), 9044-9. A mouse
model of amyloid deposition has been made,
PNAS 100 (2003), 4837-42. A NR1 knockout mice retains
NMDA receptor NR2 subunits in its ER lumen,
PNAS 100 (2003), 4855-60. Deletion of histidine
decaroxylase gene in mice
increases bone formation and protects
them against ovariectomy-induced bone loss,
PNAS 100 (2003), 6027-32. Two new deafness model mice have been made, The
Scientist (28 July 2003), 35.
Designer Molecules
Research on using introns for editing genes is discussed in
Science 300 (2003), 1646-8. Yeast has been engineered to
produce sugared
human proteins,
Science 301 (2003), 1171, 1244-6. Engineering of protein C
is described in
PNAS 100 (2003),
4423-8. Research to extend the upper temperature limit for life is discussed in
Science 301 (2003), 934.
Biotechnology & the Public
A series of papers on
evolution, religion, ethics and bioethics are in National
Catholic Bioethics Quarterly 3 (2003), 441-572. Also on evolution,
Science 301 (2003), 1051;
Nature 424 (2003), 726-7.
Questioning
the central importance of DNA in our era and the way the 50th anniversary of
the structure of DNA is celebrated are articles in
GeneWatch 16 (May 2003), 2-7; (July 2003), 2-7;
Nature 424 (2003), 127, 876-8. On genes and social issues,
NatMed. 9 (2003), 988-9;
JAMA 290 (2003), 3309. A discussion of European risks and
traditional ways of life is
Modern Law Review 66 (2003), 532-62. A conference report on
Islamic
approaches to biotechnology and ethics (Lebanon, 1-2 March 2003) is in
BME 188 (May 2003), 23-4. A book review on history of
medicine and science in early China and Greece is in
Science 301 (2003), 464-5. On the gap between elite and
popular culture in
China,
European Review 11 (2003), 183-92. On custom and human nature in
China,
Philosophy East and West
53 (2003), 308-22, 323+.
The
ethical issues of
nanotechnology are
discussed in Nature 424 (2003), 237, 246-8;
Science 301 (2003), 27;
NS (5 July 2003), 22. On space exploration,
Science 301 (2003), 771;
NS (19 July 2003), 6. A call for greater availability
of science on the media is
Science
301 (2003), 601. Pilotless aircraft are being considered from ordinary
airports, NS (28 June 2003), 4-5.
Regulation & Field Trials of GMOs
Japan has passed a
new bill on GMOs,
Food Chemical News
(30 June 2003), 18-9. A discussion of GMOs and Mexican maize is in
In
Context (Spring 2003), 3-5. In the USA 40%
of the 2003 maize crop is GM,
AgraFood Biotech 108 (7 July 2003), 18. A survey suggests about one
fifth of US farmers are flouting rules designed to prevent pest resistance to
Bt,
Nature 424 (2003), 116.
Monsanto
has proposed that exporters pay a royalty for exports for all roundupReady
soybeans, including many which are illegally grown,
Food Chemical News (2 June 2003), 22. GM seed piracy is also widespread
in Gujarat, India,
APBN 7 (2003),
717. The EU approved new laws for labeling of GM crops on 2 July,
European
Voice (3 July 2003), 4. An Australian study
suggests pesticide use was reduced by 80% in GM cotton,
AgraFood
Biotech 110 (4 August 2003), 3-4.
The UK Nuffield Council on
Ethics has said GM food will help the poor, Lancet
361 (2003), 2051. On GMOs and ethics,
Nature 424 (2003), 358, 473, 619; NS (19 July 2003), 3; (2 Aug. 2003), 21. There is controversy in India
over a GM potato containing an extra protein,
BMJ 326 (2003), 1351. New Guinea as a cradle of agriculture
is reviewed in
Science 301 (2003),
180-1;
NS (28 June 2003), 20.
There is enhanced pesticide sorption by soils with particulate burns from crop
residue burns,
EST 37 (2003),
3635-9. Trade policy and grain self-sufficiency in China is discussed in
Agricultural
Economics 28 (2003), 173-86.
Gene
transfer from
organelles to nucleus is reviewed in PNAS 100 (2003), 8612-4;
7678-83;
Nature 424 (2003), 197-201. On
horizontal gene transfer,
PNAS
100 (2003), 7419-20, 9658-62. GM decaff coffee is discussed in
Lancet 361 (2003), 2172.
The US plans to vaccinate half a million health care workers
against
smallpox have stopped, with the
figure at 38,257 people only, NS (23 Aug. 2003), 6. Also on
smallpox vaccination,
JAMA 290 (2003),
3278-82, 3283-9, 3290-4, 3295-9, 3306-7. Food and
bioterror is
discussed in
NatMed. 9 (2003), 987.
Anthrax as a weapon is discussed in
PNAS 100 (2003), 4355-6. There is increased funds for biodefense, Science 301 (2003), 17, 912-3. On surveillance mechanisms,
AJPH 93 (2003), 1230-5. A B cell-based sensor for
identification of pathogens is described in
Science 301 (2003), 213-5. A report on lawsuits against
biodefense research in the US is
Science 301 (2003), 1168-9; NatMed.
9 (2003), 805. The International Biological Weapons Convention talks are
reported in
Nature 424 (2003),
865.
Vaccines & Diseases
A report on inexpensive drugs and good will battling
lymphatic filariasis (elephantiasis) is in
The Economist (26 July 2003), 71. Parasites may be causing frog
deformities,
Science 301 (2003),
904. Insecticide-related disease is discussed in
JAMA 290 (2003), 591-2.
Ebola is continuing
in Africa,
JAMA 290 (2003), 317-9. A
call for vaccination against Ebola in primates is
Nature 424 (2003), 602, 681-5.
Films for
public health education are discussed in
AJPH 93 (2003), 1046-56. On malaria in the UK, PNAS 100 (2003), 9997-10001. Africa will have help from
China in fighting malaria,
Lancet
362 (2003), 456. India also has a large vaccine capacity,
NatMed. 9 (2003), 813. APOE2 may be a small risk factor in
malaria,
JMG 40 (2003), 348-51.
On global funds for health,
Lancet
362 (2003), 299. A vaccine for motor neuron disease and ALS is being developed,
PNAS 100 (2003), 4790-5.
Poliovirus research is discussed in
Science &
Engineering Ethics 9 (2003), 319-38,
340-42. Eradication of polio by 2005 is going to need more money,
Nature 424 (2003), 604;
Lancet 362 (2003), 454. Prions and mad cow disease are
discussed in
NEJM 348 (2003),
2695-6;
BMJ 326 (2003), 1463;
NatMed. 9 (2003), 819-20, 893-9;
Nature 424 (2003), 948-52;
NS (5 July 2003), 5. Zoonotic transmission of hepatitis
E from deer to humans has been found,
Lancet 362 (2003), 371-3. Mapping of trait for
trypanotolerance in African cattle is reported in
PNAS 100 (2003), 7443-8. A monkeypox outbreak in USA is
discussed,
JAMA 290 (2003), 23-4.
Dust clouds could carry infectious diseases,
SA (July 2003), 10-1.
Fears of SARS return are in
NS (28 June 2003), 12; (5 July, 2003), 10-11; (23 Aug. 2003), 9; Nature 424 (2003), 113. A new case was reported in
Singapore at the start of September. Media and SARS is discussed in
Current
Biology 13 (2003), R627-8. Papers on SARS
ethics
are
Issues in Medical Ethics 11 (July
2003), 70-1;
HCR 33 (July 2003),
49;
SA (July 2003), 4. A
reference text on line for free is http://SARSReference.com/ In general on
SARS,
Nature 423 (2003), 905-6;
424 (2003), 121-6, 362, 983;
NEJM
349 (2003), 187-8, 707-12;
FDA Consumer (July 2003), 14-7; Lancet
361 (2003), 2045-6, 2212; 362 (2003), 263-70;
JAMA 289 (2003), 3231-2; 290 (2003), 367-73, 374-80, 397;
BMJ 326 (2003), 1350, 1354-8,
1393-5;
Science 301 (2003),
294-9. Continued surveillance is necessary,
NatMed. 9 (2003), 806. China has stopped the ban on rare
animals in food markets,
Science
301 (2003), 1031. Discussion of the SARS genome
patent claims are
in
Lancet 361 (2003), 2002-3; 362
(2003), 405. A letter suggesting language may be the reason why USA imported
more SARS than Japan is
Lancet
362 (2003), 170.
WHO has recommended to stop the widespread use of
antibiotics in farming, Science 301 (2003), 1027.
On the waste of antibiotics,
NS (19 July
2003), Inside Science 162, pp.1-4;
SSM 57 (2003), 733-44; Nature
424 (2003), 491. Modelling the best use of antibiotics in an
anthrax
outbreak is reported in
PNAS 100 (2003),
10129-32. Drug resistance and spread of rare genes is modeled in
PNAS 100 (2003), 7401-5.
AIDS & Sexually Transmitted Diseases
The ethics of HIV positive persons in workplace are
discussed in
Nursing Ethics 10 (2003),
281-94. Establishing ethical trials for preventing AIDS in developing countries
are reviewed in
BMJ 327 (2003),
337-9, 340. It is necessary to include private providers,
BMJ 326 (2003), 1382-4. The South African Medicines
Council is debating the use of nevirapine in preventing vertical transmission
of HIV,
Lancet 362 (2003), 451;
BMJ 327 (2003), 306. A plan for insurance against AIDS
in Africa is discussed in
Lancet
362 (2003), 50. Economists want more money to be spent on antiretrovirals,
Lancet 362 (2003), 215.
Methods to combat India's HIV are making comparisons to
Africa,
BMJ 326 (2003), 1389-92; and
there is increasing numbers infected (around 4-5 million are HIV positive),
BMJ 327 (2003), 245. HIV is developing in China,
Lancet 361 (2003), 2125-6. Changing behaviour is necessary,
BMJ 326 (2003), 1342-3. A study
on STDs and culture in Papua New Guinea is
Med. Anthropology
Quarterly 16 (2002), 151-75. The new WHO
chief, Jong-wook Lee has committed more resources to AIDS,
Lancet 362 (2003), 297. So has President Bush of USA,
NatMed. 9 (2003), 808;
Lancet 362 (2003), 216-7.
Justice and the burden of HIV positive immigrants to a
health system are discussed in
BMJ 327
(2003), 124, 171. On HIV drug resistance,
Nature 424 (2003), 361. Reviews on AIDS are in
NatMed. 9 (July 2003), 839-886;
Cell 114 (2003), 147-52. On HIV vaccine research,
NatMed. 9 (2003), 874-80. Long term effects of HAART are
unknown still,
Lancet 362 (2003),
22-9.
Microbes & Pollution Remedies
A study of hydrocarbon-degrading microbes in contaminated
and pristine alpine soils in
AEM 69
(2003), 3085-92. Study of a recombinant Psudomonas putida strain with
desulfization genes is reported in
Biotechnology Letters 25 (2003), 1147-50. A comparison of dehalogenase
gene pools in cultured versus environmental metagene pools found significant
differences,
AEM 69 (2003),
4375-82. Use of silica-immobilized humin is a cost effective way to remove
heavy metals in solutions,
Bioresource Technology 90 (2003), 11-7. Mercury removal can be enhanced one
hundred fold by a new technology produced by Gore Inc.,
EST 37 (2003), 283-4A.
Environmental Issues
A series of papers on integrative biology are in
Biology
International (IUBS) No. 44 (June 2003),
5-91. On the limits of environmental science,
EST 37 (2003). Environmental false alarms are discussed
in
Science 301 (2003), 1187-8. On
oil dumping at sea,
EST 37
(2003), 245-6A. On water resources,
EST 37 (2003), 273-4A, 3048-54. Sustainability is discussed in PNAS 100 (2003), 8059-91.
Global warming and heat waves as Europe experienced this
summer are signs of the future changes for agriculture,
NS (23 Aug. 2003), 5. On global warming,
SA (August 2003), 10-1. Global warming has affected
Lake Tanganyika and fish production,
Nature 424 (2003), 731-2. A review on the history of El
Nino is
Nature 424 (2003),
261-62. West Nile virus is expected to spread more as global warming occurs,
NS (26 July 2003), 12-3. Hydrogen energy is discussed
in
Nature 424 (2003), 129-130;
Science 301 (2003), 47-8;
NS (16 Aug. 2003), 8-11.
While UV light exposure in excess causes cancer, some
sunlight exposure is necessary for health, NS
(9 Aug. 2003), 3, 30-3.
There is discussion of the recent blackout in Eastern North
American as electricity grids failed,
NS
(23 Aug. 2003), 3, 7. There may be a need for more
nuclear power
in the future,
NS (9 Aug. 2003), 10-13.
The threshold of low dose radiation is discussed in
PNAS 100 (2003), 4973-5. Studies from Hiroshima exposure
are discussed in
Nature 424
(2003), 495-6;
Science 301
(2003), 742. In Iraq there may be some persons exposed to high levels,
BMJ 327 (2003), 11. Gamma ray weapons may be developed
for the next military arms race,
NS
(16 Aug. 2003), 4-5. Cosmic rays in airplanes do not appear to increase cancer
risk,
NS (19 July 2003), 7. The
dangers of internal radiation are unknown,
NS (19 July 2003), 5. On nuclear leaking from
NS (5 July 2003), 8.
The tragedy of
arsenic
poisoning across the world is surveyed in NS (9 Aug. 2003), 4-5.
Lead paint on former military bases poses risks to wildlife,
EST 37 (2003), 277-9A. On cadmium and cancer,
NatGen 34 (2003), 239-41. Contaminant bioavailibity in soil
is reviewed in
EST 37 (2003),
295-301A. Environmental copper may have a role in Alzheimer disease,
Science 301 (2003), 905. On industrial pollution,
NEJM 348 (2003), 2696-7. The question of whether
environmental mutagens cause cancer is discussed in
NatGen 34 (2003), 255-9. On environment and health,
JAMA 290 (2003), 674. Veterinary medicines are causing
environmental risks,
EST 37
(2003), 286-94A.
Biodiversity
A call for buying the wilderness areas of the world at cheap
prices as wilderness nature reserves is made in
NS (23 Aug. 2003), 4-5. The benefits from sale of
products from rainforests are reviewed in
NS (19 July 2003), 36-9. There is debate over whether
oil wealth helps conservation,
NS
(16 Aug. 2003), 6. Soil microfauna may not be affected by fires,
Ecological
Engineering 20 (2003), 113-9.
Socioeconomics drive urban plant diversity,
PNAS 100 (2003), 8788-92. On agrobiodiversity,
Naturwissenschaften 90 (2003), 241-50. A seedbank in
Iraq
holds hope for a recovery,
Nature 424
(2003), 242. Legal roles in marine conservation are discussed in
Nature 424 (2003), 603.
A study of
whale
levels before whaling started in the North Atlantic is Nature 424
(2003), 479, 715;
Science 301 (2003),
451, 508-10. The level of sperm whales may have been 12 times the level
previously thought. The global decline of
coral reefs is analyzed
in
Science 301 (2003), 929-33, 955-8.
Europe has banned deep sea trawling to save coral,
Nature 424 (2003), 988. Electric jolts may keep out
unwanted fish,
Science 301
(2003), 157-8. The UN is joining Russia to save the Western Pacific salmon,
Science 301 (2003), 1167. Pirates catching krill in
Antarctica are endangering the ecosystem,
NS (26 July 2003), 10. On marine conservation,
Nature 424 (2003), 723. Hotspot conservation is discussed
in
American Scientist 91 (2003),
344-53.
On extinction processes,
Current Biology
13 (2003), R461-2. Global perspectives on forest canopies are in
Science 301 (2003), 183-6. It is not always easy to know
which species are problems in ecosystems,
Science 301 (2003), 52-3. Molecular phylogenies and
speciation are discussed in
Science
301 (2003), 478. Genetic diversity in Yellowstone grizzly bear could be
enhanced by import of bears for conservation,
PNAS 100 (2003), 4334-9.
Animal Rights
A call for those countries opposed to
whaling to clearly state their moral objections is in NS
(23 Aug. 2003), 3. Animal rights are questioned in
National Catholic
Bioethics Quarterly 3 (2003), 287-308.
Japanese animal rights groups dislike the violent methods used in the UK,
Nature 424 (2003), 119. Europe has retired the last
research chimpanzees,
NatMed. 9
(2003), 981.
China has launched a primate centre to broaden their
medical use,
Nature 424 (2003), 239-40.
Discussion of human savagery to humans is in
SA (July 2003), 23. There may a legacy of cannibalism
in our genes,
Current Biology 13
(2003), R592-3. Evolution of cooperation is discussed in
NS (28 June 2003), 14-5. On sociality in bees,
Current
Biology 13 (2003), R644-5.
Understanding of pain is developing,
Nature 424 (2003), 729-30;
PNAS 100 (2003), 8538-42. Pharmacological modulation of
learning is discussed in
Science
301 (2003), 91-4. Men and women may react to pain differently,
Lancet 361 (2003), 2052-3. On meditation,
Time (4 August 2003), 48-57. Fear memory retrieval is
discussed in
Science 301 (2003),
846-50. Learning in mice is discussed in
Nature 424 (2003), 1004-5. Comparisons of human speech and
bird song are in
PNAS 100 (2003),
8030-5, 9645-6. Birds sing at higher pitch in urban noise,
Nature 424 (2003), 267. A review on the birth of
human-specific genes during primate evolution is
Genetica 118 (2003), 193-208. Evolution of human head louse
and clothing is reviewed in
Current Biology 13 (2003), 1414-7.
Brain function
Anatomical maps of the brain are discussed in
Nature 424 (2003), 249-50;
Science 301 (2003), 170-1. On the science of neuroeconomics,
Nature 424 (2003), 371-2.
Naturalizing consciousness is discussed in
PNAS 100 (2003), 5520-4. Computers may teach us about
consciousness,
NS (19 July 2003),
40-3. The future of cyborgs is discussed in
Nature 424 (2003), 615. Possibility to read minds is
developing,
NS (26 July 2003),
14-5.
Safety of Recombinant DNA Products
A summary of products being made from transgenic
animals is NatBio 21 (2003), 847. Human
erythropoietin protects the heart,
PNAS
100 (2003), 4802-6. The question of whether growth factors can promote
neurogenesis is discussed in
Trends in Neurosciences 26 (2003), 283-5. Use of monoclonal antibodies is
reported in
Lancet 362 (2003),
92-3. Better drugs through sweetening are discussed in
SA (July 2003), 14-5. On biologics for arthritis
therapy,
JAMA 289 (2003),
3229-30. Discussion of a new anticancer drug, Genasense, is
NS (19 July 2003), 32-5. A report on treatment of SARS
with
interferons is
Lancet
362 (2003), 293-4. Interferon use in MS is reported in
Lancet 361 (2003), 2036-43. On TPA for treating sepsis,
JAMA 290 (2003), 238-47. Use of growth hormone in the
elderly is debated in
JAMA 290
(2003), 462. A study of CJD victims treated by human-derived growth hormone is
Lancet 362 (2003), 128-30.
Food safety
Codex has adopted
international GM food standards, Lancet 362 (2003), 219.
Australia has approved the first GM commercial food crop, a
herbicide resistant canola, AgraFood Biotech 110 (4 August 2003),
12. The US WTO claim against Europe is discussed in
NatBio 21 (2003), 735-6.
Europe has
introduced tough
labeling laws, Lancet
362 (2003), 135;
NatMed. 9 (2003), 984;
NS (12 July 2003), 6. GM labeling in China is not so
easy,
NatBio 21 (2003), 835-6.
Discussion of GM food is in
The Economist (26 July 2003), 23-5; GeneWatch 16 (May 2003), 11-3; (July 2003), 14-5; Current Biology 13 (2003), R578-9. The UK debate is discussed in
Current
Biology 13 (2003), R497-8, R625-6;
Science 301 (2003), 447-8;
NS (26 July 2003), 6-7;
Nature 424 (2003), 995. A report for discussion is Rathenau
Institute,
Genes for your Food - Food for your Genes (The Hague: Rathenau Instittue, ISBN 90-77364-02-1,
August 2003, 176pp.). It discusses societal issues and dilemmas in food
genomics. Also on
food genomics,
The Pharmacogenomics J. 3 (2003), 191-3. A book review of another new book
on the subject is
NS (23 Aug.
2003), 46. The Health Council of the Netherlands recommends that Novel Foods be
tested than sold, and also have approved herbicide tolerant maize (NK603),
Network 18 (May 2003), 30-2. US academia has been warned
from FDA that they are accountable for the fate of the GMOs and GM animals
after,
NatBio 21 (2003), 720-1.
Brain control of eating is reviewed in
NS (9 Aug. 2003), 38-41. The ethics of
privacy
in treating adolescents with anorexia nervosa is discussed in
J. Law &
Medicine 10 (2003), 308-21. Binge eating
and melanocortin 4 receptor gene mutation is discussed in
NEJM 349 (2003), 606-9. The FDA is requiring labels on
trans-fat amounts on food,
Lancet
362 (2003), 218. On healthy eating,
BMJ 327 (2003), 121. Antioxidants are discussed in Lancet 361 (2003), 2017-23;
Nature 424 (2003), 1013.
Obesity risks are
discussed in
Lancet 362 (2003), 182,
212-4;
BMJ 327 (2003), 181;
NEJM 349 (2003), 502-3. Traditional
Mediterranean
diet lowers mortality in Greece,
NEJM
348 (2003), 2599-608. Doctors should advise eating fruits,
BMJ 327 (2003), 1458. Athletes may consume too much
fluids,
BMJ 327 (2003), 113.
Vitamin supplements do not increase cancer or heart disease,
Annals
of Int. Med. 139 (2003), 51-5;
BMJ 327 (2003), 70.
A review of hunger is Black, RE. Et al. "Where and why
are 10 million children dying every year",
Lancet 361 (2003), 2226-34, 2172. The definition of
malnutrition is discussed in
Lancet
362 (2003), 249.
Disease Risks & Drugs
The ethics of drug use are discussed in Pollard, I.
"From happiness to depression",
Today's Life Science (Australia) 15(4) (July 2003), 22-6. There still may
be a place for street drugs in clinical research,
NS (9 Aug. 2003), 26.
Papers on pharmacogenomics and clinical trials are in
Clinical
Evaluation (Rinsho Hyoka) 30 (2003), Suppl.
19, 308pp. The duties of doctors to provide information about alternative
medicine is discussed in
J. Law & Medicine 10 (2003), 271-84, 296-307. Integration of European
and Western medicine is discussed in
European Review 11 (2003), 225+.
Patenting & Business
The issues of patenting of body parts is discussed in
Today's
Life Science (Australia) 15(4) (July 2003),
12-3. A history of the patenting of BRCA1 is in
Health Law J. 10 (2002), 123-46. Patenting in nature and commons
is discussed in
Ram's Horn 213
(August 2003), 1-4. Public sector collaboration in IP is discussed in
Science 301 (2003), 174-5. Equitable use of genetic
information is called for by John Sulston in
Lancet 362 (2003), 400-2. On benefit sharing,
Lancet 362 (2003), 242-4;
Bulletin WHO 81 (2003), 382. In general on patenting,
GEN 23 (1 April 2003), 6, 66;
SA (July 2003), 22;
Nature 424 (2003), 480, 875;
Science 300 (2003), 1375-6. Ethics of patents are discussed
in
J. Commercial Biotechnology 9
(2003), 192-8. A call for
patent free
innovation is made in Nature 424 (2003), 118; NS (14 June 2003), 29. On SARS patents, Nature 423 (2003), 207; and SARS news.
TRIPS and
globalization
is discussed in Lancet 362 (2003), 260;
The Ecologist 33 (June 2003), 28-47;
SA (June 2003), 16;
Bulletin WHO 81 (2003), 147;
NS (31 May 2003), 25. The real
cost of drug
development is queried in
SA (July
2003), 16;
BMJ 326 (2003), 1218.
Price competition is discussed in
Lancet 362 (2003), 89, 257. Europe and US have agreed to cheap drug imports
after much debate, BMJ 326
(2003), 1229; 327 (2003), 246;
JAMA
290 (2003), 29;
Bulletin WHO 81
(2003), 150-1, 469;
Lancet 362
(2003), 1873. Many drugs were shelved as companies did not expect big profits,
and some may be useful,
Nature
424 (2003), 10-1. A survey on why patients do not donate their tissue for
commercial research is
BMJ 327
(2003), 262.
The US has conducted a survey of biotechnology in the USA,
NatBio 21 (2003), 836-7. According to Ersnt and Young 2003
report on biotechnology, revenues for biotechnology was 41 billion US$ for the
4362 public and private companies worldwide,
Science 301 (2003), 43. PPL Therapeutics has financial
collapse following failure to get approval for transgenic milk products,
Nature 423 (2003), 907. Separation of drug prescribing from
dispensing in
Korea is called for in
SSM 57 (2003), 529-38. Gifts from industry are discussed
in
JAMA 290 (2003), 252-5;
BMJ 326 (2003), 1155-6, 1163. Discussion of
academia-industry
relations is in
NatBio 21 (2003),
618-26;
JAMA 289 (2003), 2502-3,
3240-1; 290 (2003), 113;
Science
301 (2003), 1050-2;
Lancet 362
(2003), 302-3;
Nature 424 (2003),
489;
BMJ 326 (2003), 1156-7,
1167-70, 1171-3, 1178-9, 1189-92, 1193;
NatMed. 9 (2003), 493-5;
Bulletin WHO 81 (2003), 235. Direct consumer marketing of drugs
is discussed in
BMJ 326 (2003),
1004, 1094, 1194-6, 1208-10, 1284, 1302-3;
FDA Consumer (March 2003), 9. Medical journals also have
relationships with drug companies,
BMJ 326 (2003), 1202-5.
Ethics in regulation
of biotechnology in Europe is discussed in BIOforum Europe (June
2003), 132-9. Science in
Europe is
discussed in Science 301 (2003), 565, 1152;
NS (24 May 2003), 61; (31 May 2003), 54-5; in
India,
East & West IsIAO 51 (Dec 2001),
351-8; in
Brazil,
Science
300 (2003), 1366-7; in
Mexico,
NatBio 21 (2003), 582-3; and in
USA,
NatGen 34 (2003), 233-4;
Science 300 (2003), 1070-4, 1201. In general on biotech
business,
Lancet 362 (2003), 48;
NatBio 21 (2003), 607-12;
Nature 423 (2003), 908. The mixed effects of globalization
are discussed in
SA (July 2003),
17. Government-funded research should be available to all,
Science 301 (2003), 29.
Japan has pushed for
more patents from research,
Nature 424
(2003), 244. Japanese lab budget systems are criticized in
Nature 423 (2003), 221;
Science 300 (2003), 2027. A Japanese researcher who was
charged of industrial espionage in USA has received a minimal sentence but has
severe career problems,
Nature
423 (2003), 575. The main person who was charged has not returned to USA from
Japan.
Birth Control
A book review of
Longevity is in Science 301
(2003), 1185. A book review of
The Selected Papers of Margaret Sanger is in JAMA 290
(2003), 408-9. Hormone therapy and health risks are discussed in
JAMA 289 (2003), 3241-2; 290 (2003), 3243-53, 3254-63, 3304-6; Lancet 362 (2003), 260-2, 414, 419-27, 428-32; NEJM 349 (2003), 523-34; BMJ 327 (2003), 9. A comparison of menopause in Japanese
American and European American women is Med. Anthropology Quarterly 16 (2002), 64-91. Cadmium mimics the effects of estrogen, NatMed. 9 (2003), 1081-4. An Australian study suggests that the
more men ejaculate between 20-50 years the less likely they are to develop
prostrate cancer, NS (19 July 2003),
15;
BJU International 92 (2003), 211+.
A new book is Aldrich, RF.
Colonialism
and Homosexuality, Routledge 2003.
A book review of
Evolution, Gender and Rape is Science 301
(2003), 313. Sexual abuse in patients visiting gynecology clinics in Nordic
countries is reviewed in
Lancet 361
(2003), 2107-13. Gynecology in Turkey is discussed in
SSM 57 (2003), 205-15. Slavery is discussed in Lancet 361 (2003), 2093.
A paper looking at rural
China is Wang, CC. Et al. "Reproductive health indicators
for China's rural areas", SSM 57
(2003), 217-25. A report on trafficking in baby girls in China for sale is in
NY
Times (August 2003). On reproductive
health of older women in developing countries,
BMJ 327 (2003), 64-5. Pregnancy and concepts of disease are
discussed in Sociology of Health & Illness 25 (2003), 383-407. Safe motherhood in Mozambique can be
endangered by many rumours, SSM 57
(2003), 355-74. Fertility has declined in Tanzania with increase in empowerment
of women,
SSM 57 (2003), 1099-1115.
A discussion of methods for
male contraception is F&S 80 (2003), 1-15. In the UK a doctor who failed a
sterilization operation may have to pay for the costs of raising the child until
they are 18 years old, BMJ 327 (2003),
183. On female genital cutting,
Med. Anthroplogy Quarterly 17 (2003), 135-58. Attitudes to polygamy in English Law
are discussed in Modern Law Review
(2003), 370+. On selection of mates in salmon,
NS (2 Aug. 2003), 16.
Embryo Status
The BMA has supported the concept of embryo selection using
preimplantation diagnosis to help treat a seriously ill sibling, BMJ
327 (2003), 71. A US case is discussed in
BMJ 326 (2003), 1416. Teenage childbearing in the USA is discussed in SSM 57 (2003),
881-93. A Swedish study found men born out of wedlock have a higher risk of
death from heart attack,
SSM 57 (2003),
487-501. Infanticide is discussed in
JAMA
289 (2003), 3178-9. A paper on French women's experience with
RU486 is in Med. Anthropology Quarterly 16 (2002), 92-108. The use of fetal cells for Parkinson's
therapy is not yet ready for widespread use, Nature 424 (2003), 987.
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
A
nursing perspective on cloning is in
Nursing Ethics 10 (2003), 238-54. Three articles on cloning in
Italian are in
Itinerarium 11
(2003), No. 24; pp. 71-106.
Interspecies hybrids between rabbits
and humans have been used to make stem cells in
China, and there is controversy about the plan, Nature
424 (2003), 711:
NS (23 Aug. 2003), 14.
Reasons for making chimeric embryos are discussed in
NS (12 July 2003), 3. On ethics of cloning,
Nature 424 (2003), 14;
SA (July 2003), 24-5. The diversity of views on use of
ES
cells in Europe is discussed in
Science 301 (2003), 289, 1017. Laws and ES cells are
discussed in
NEJM 349 (2003),
300. The AMA has approved ES cell research,
BMJ 326 (2003), 1417. Alan Trounson has resigned as
director of the Australian stem cell centre,
Nature 424 (2003), 716. A cautious note on stem cell research
with comparisons to gene therapy is
NS (19 July 2003), 24; see a conference report from BIO2003 in NS (5 July 2003), 19.
Ethics
of
ICSI are discussed in Cahiers
(CCNE, France) 35 (April 2003), 15-23. Ethics of intersex changes is discussed
in
HCR 33 (July 2003), 12-3. A special
supplement is Parens E. & Knowles LP., "
Reprogenetics
and public policy: Reflections and Recommendations" is
HCR 33 (July 2003), S1-24.
Surrogacy and
adoption are compared in
National Catholic Bioethics Quarterly 3 (2003), 309-30. On surrogacy in Israel,
Med. Anthropology Quarterly 17 (2003), 78-98. Cases in the UK on choice of
babies are discussed in
BME 188 (May
2003), 7-8. Egg donation is discussed in
Lancet 362 (2003), 413; BMJ 327 (2003), 250.
Spontaneous
abortion
risk is not higher in ART in
USA, O&G 101 (2003), 959-67. The safety of ART is discussed
in
NS (12 July 2003), 18-9;
Nature 424 (2003), 120. On prevention of infertility,
F&S 80 (2003), 295-9. Sex preselection is discussed in
F&S 80 (2003), 469-70. Insurance cover for ART in the
USA affects the embryo transfer procedures,
F&S 80 (2003), 16-23, 24-7, 28-9, 30-31. There is a
decline in male fertility over age,
F&S 79 (2003), (Suppl.3), 1520-7. Restroation of
fertility by germ cell transplants is developing,
Biology of Reproduction 69 (2003), 412-20.
Fetal Environment & Neonates
60% of women cannot remember one major labour management
event,
AJOG 189 (2003), 195-200.
Beneficial biochemical effects of labour are discussed in
AJOG 189 (2003), 181-8. Problems of premature children
are discussed in
JAMA 289 (2003),
3264-72. SMA Nutrition has been fined for direct advertising of baby milk to
mothers in the UK,
BMJ 327
(2003), 307. Economics and life history are discussed in
PNAS 100 (2003), 9114-5. Evolution in a genetically
heritable social environment is discussed in
PNAS 100 (2003), 4357-9.
There is an excess of girl mortality in infants who die in
India related to neglect,
BMJ 327
(2003), 126-8. On motives for neonaticide,
JAMA 290 (2003), 462-3. Supplementing infants with
vitamin A improves infant mortality,
BMJ 327 (2003), 254-7. On prevention of child deaths, Lancet 362 (2003), 65-71, 159-64. Body piercing of young
children is discussed in
Lancet
361 (2003), 2250. Trisomy 21 does not appear to decline with folic acid food
fortification,
AJMG 120A (2003),
309-13.
There is increased risk of head growth during infancy in
autism, JAMA 290 (2003), 337-44, 393-4;
Lancet 362 (2003), 220. A peak in increase in autism was in
1992,
BMJ 327 (2003), 248.
Shyness may develop in childhood,
Lancet 361 (2003), 2137. Lead levels and intellectual development are
discussed in NEJM 349 (2003),
500-1. Prenatal exposure to a cannabinoid produces memory deficits in rats,
PNAS 100 (2003), 4915-20.
ADHD genes are
under study,
Science 301 (2003), 160-1.
An association between hyperactivity and organophosphate exposure is discussed
in
NatGen 34 (2003), 235.
DDT
effects are discussed in
Lancet 361
(2003), 2205-6. A new study of child disease has begun in the USA,
Science 301 (2003), 162-3.
Children can sue for wrongful diagnosis of abuse in the UK,
BMJ 327 (2003), 299-300, 305. The impact of parental
psychiatric disorders on children is discussed in
BMJ 327 (2003), 242-3. On childhood depression,
JAMA 289 (2003), 3078-9. On the origins of reading,
NS (5 July 2003), 30-3. The impact of childhood cancer
on adult psychiatric hospitalization is not significant,
NEJM 349 (2003), 650-7. Counseling for violence is
discussed in
JAMA 290 (2003),
603-11, 643-9. UK MPs have called for a ban on smacking children,
BMJ 327 (2003), 1414. There is need for more study on
the impact of violent videos on children,
Nature 424 (2003), 355. Risks for 5-14 year old children in
the UK are reviewed in
SSM 57
(2003), 625-36.
Genetic Disease Markers
Discussion of genes in
cancer is in NS (23 Aug. 2003), 36-9;
NatGen 34 (2003), 242-3, 308-12, 337-42, 353-4, 403-12;
Human Mutation
22 (2003), 121-8;
Lancet 362
(2003), 230-2. FAP is linked to mutations in MYH,
Lancet 362 (2003), 5, 39-41. Reduced expression of VGEF is
a risk factor for ALS,
NatGen 34
(2003), 357+. PGC-1alpha is important for type 2 diabetes,
NatGen 34 (2003), 244-2. Prevalence of myotonic dystrophy
in Jewish communities in Israel is surveyed in
AJMG 119A (2003), 273-8. A study of nephronophthisis and
cilial dysfunction is
NatGen 34
(2003), 355-6. The role of ancestral genetic data in genetic disease studies is
discussed in
Nature 424 (2003),
374. Genetics of circadian rhythm is reviewed in
Science 301 (2003), 271, 277, 326-342. SCNM1 is a putative
RNA splicing factor that modifies disease severity in mice,
Science 301 (2003), 967-9. Mutation frequency is discussed
in
Science 301 (2003), 643-6.
Genes for cortisone reductase deficiency are described in
NatGen 34 (2003), 434-9. Longevity and hemochromatosis is
discussed in
BMJ 327 (2003),
132-3.
On intelligence and genes,
NS (9 Aug. 2003), 3, 14-5. Behavioural genetics is discussed in Science 301 (2003), 291, 386-9;
J. Health & Social Behavior 44 (2003), 130-5. Schizophrenia genes are discussed
in
AJHG 73 (2003), 34-48;
AJMG 120B (2003), 1-10, 11-7; 121B (2003), 7-13. On genes
of bipolar disorder,
AJHG 73
(2003), 49-62. Parkin and Parkinson's disease is discussed in
Current Biology
13 (2003), R522-4;
PNAS 100
(2003), 5956-61. On personality traits in Korea,
AJMG 121B (2003), 44-9. On genetics and Huntington
disease,
AJMG 119A (2003),
279-82.
Genetic Screening Methodology
Methods to predict cancer based on genomics are reviewed in
Lancet 362 (2003), 340. Breast cancer screening is
discussed in
Lancet 362 (2003),
245-7;
JAMA 290 (2003), 450-1.
Information is needed for women who use mammography,
BMJ 327 (2003), 101-3. Use of mammography in Samoan
women in L.A. is reported in
SSM
57 (2003), 987-1000. Poor reliability of prostrate screening in the USA is
reported in
NEJM 349 (2003),
335-42;
BMJ 327 (2003), 249;
NS (2 Aug. 2003), 7. On colorectal cancer screening in
the USA,
Amer. J. Med. 115
(2003), 129-33. A paper illustrating the use of gene testing in drug therapy is
Chang, JC. Et al. "Gene expression profiling for prediction of therapeutic
response to docetaxel in patients with breast cancer",
Lancet 362 (2003), 362-9.
Attempts to put all genes onto a gene chip are being made,
Nature 424 (2003), 605. On use of
microarrays,
F&S 80 (2003), 293+;
Nature 424 (2003), 610-2. Detection of gene expression at
single molecule level is useful for diagnosis,
Biol. Psychiatry 54 (2003), 413-7. Genetics for general medicine
needs to be developed more,
BMJ
326 (2003), 1413; 327 (2003), 2-3. A report from screening for genetic hearing
loss in India is
AJMG 120A
(2003), 180-4.
On preimplantation diagnosis reliability,
Lancet 362 (2003), 250;
F&S 80 (2003), 467-8. Use of preimplantation diagnosis
for cryptic translation is recorded in
AJMG 121A (2003), 56-9. There may be increase fetal DNA
in maternal blood in Down syndrome pregnancies,
Prenatal Diagnosis 23 (2003), 580-3. Combination of nuchal translucency
and serum markers for Down syndrome is in
Prenatal Diagnosis 23 (2003), 588-92. Fetal HLA typing in beta
thalassemia is discussed in
Lancet
362 (2003), 6, 41-2. Placental mRNA in maternal plasma may be useful for fetal
screening,
PNAS 100 (2003),
4360-62. A safe smear test for prenatal diagnosis is being developed,
NS (16 Aug. 2003), 21.
DNA Fingerprinting & Privacy
US database protection laws are debated in
Science &
Engineering Ethics 9 (2003), 301-18. The
increased use of electronic technology in medicine is discussed in
JAMA 290 (2003), 259-64;
BMJ 326 (2003), 1439-43; 327 (2003), 114-5;
Lancet 362 (2003), 452-3. Forensic exhumation of mass
graves in Iraq is described in
JAMA
290 (2003), 663-6. Possible codes for encrypting data in DNA are given in
Biotechnology
Letters 25 (2003), 1125-30. DNA codes can
be used to link marijuana to the source,
NS (12 July 2003), 7.
A
Japanese genetics
and health study has been halted by concerns expressed by the Japan Medical
Association over privacy, Science 301 (2003), 1039;
Nature 424 (2003), 359. There is also a Japanese biobank
project,
NatMed. 9 (2003), 982.
On the future of the UK Biobank,
Lancet 362 (2003), 492. Discussion of the UNESCO guidelines on protection of
genetic data is Lancet 362
(2003), 45. A DNA biobank for African Americans has started,
NatMed. 9 (2003), 809.
A US study found no actual
evidence of discrimination, Armstrong K. et al. "Life insurance and breats
cancer risk assessement",
AJMG
120A (2003), 359-64. The US is considering still about genetic discrimination,
NatMed. 9 (2003), 983.
Ethics & Genetic Screening
A claim that knowing that we are genetically prone to
addiction may help people quit smoking is discussed in NS
(9 Aug. 2003), 16. Genes for alcoholism are being studied in students,
Science 301 (2003), 1180-1. A special issue on
disability
ethics is
NZ Bioethics J. 4 (June 2003),
2-32. A paper on disability and statistics in China is
Med.
Anthropology Quarterly 17 (2003), 5-24. A
community study of the outcome of people with open spina bifida at age 35 is
BMJ 327 (2003), 1365-6.
Ethics of genetics research is discussed in
Science &
Engineering Ethics 9 (2003), 409-18;
Nursing
Ethics 10 (2003), 255-68, 323-5;
BME 188 (April 2003), 3-5;
NEJM 349 (2003), 562-9;
SSM 57 (2003), 403-12. Tributes to Dorothy Wertz are in
HCR 33 (July 2003), 45. One her last papers to be
written is
Wertz, DC. "Ethical, social and legal issues in
pharmacogenomics",
The Pharmacogenomics J. 3 (2003), 194-6. The UK Dept. of health in a report Our
inheritance , our future, has called for
greater understanding of genetics by GPs in the UK,
BME 189 (June 2003), 3-4. The duty to warn relatives of
genetic disease is discussed in
AJMG
120A (2003), 374-80. A study of seeking genetic information on deafness but not
for purposes of termination is in
JMG 40 (2003), e79.
Genomic profiling for
lifestyle choice is discussed in NatGen 34
(2003), 347-50. Predictive genomics is discussed in
Lancet 362 (2003), 340-2. Pretest prediction of BRCA gene
mutations is discussed in
JMG 40
(2003), 503-10. A review is Wald, NJ. Et al. "
Cystic fibrosis:
Selecting the prenatal screening strategy of choice",
Prenatal
Diagnosis 23 (2003), 474-83. CF population
screening is discussed in
AJMG
120A (2003), 199-208. Predictive testing for fragile X syndrome in female
carriers of the gene is more reliable with gene expression studies on hair root
analysis than by DNA testing,
JMG
40 (2003), 377-9. As discussed in the ART news section, embryo selection for
saving ailing siblings is being accepted,
Current Biology
13 (2003), R541-3. US parent attitudes to newborn screening are discussed in
AJMG 120A (2003), 209-14.
The relationship between eugenics and infanticide is
discussed in
National Catholic Bioethics Quarterly 3 (2003), 265-74. A report on a Dutch project on
parenthood and contraception for people with mental retardation is
Network 18 (May 2003), 7-8.
Gene Therapy
Papers
on the ethical issues from extension of
lifespan include: Juengst, ET. et al. "Biogerontology, "Anti-aging
medicine", and the challenges of human enhancement", HCR
33 (July 2003), 21-30; Gems, D. "Is more life always better?",
HCR 33 (July 2003),31-9;
HCR 33 (July 2003), 3;
NatGen 34 (2003), 237-8;
Nature 424 (2003), 880-1. Certain compounds activate
life-extending genes,
Science 301
(2003), 1165. A special supplement is Parens E. & Knowles LP.,
"Reprogenetics and public policy: Reflections and Recommendations" is
HCR 33 (July 2003), S1-24.
News
from a hemophilia gene therapy trial is in
Today's Life Science (Australia) 15(4) (July 2003), 16. The
AAV
gene vector preferentially inserts in actively transcribed genes,
NatGen 34 (2003), 241-2, 297-302. Use of AAV to transfer
opioid receptor gene to neurons is reported in
PNAS 100 (2003), 6204-9. New therapies for
muscular
dystrophy are being developed with gene therapy,
NatMed. 9 (2003), 997-9;
NS (12 July 2003), 13. Gene therapy for ocular
neovascularization is progressing,
Current Opinion in Genetics &
Development 13 (2003), 317-22. In general
on the future of gene therapy,
Current Biology 13 (2003), R577-8;
NatMed. 9 (2003), 977;
BMJ 327 (2003), 1410-1. Retrograde viral delivery of
IGF-1 prolongs survival in a mouse ALS model,
Science 301 (2003), 839-42. Immunotherapy of tumours using
genetically modified hematopoietic stem cells is reported in
NatMed. 9 (2003), 952-8. Also on cell therapy, Science 301
(2003), 487-92. On transgene control,
Biotechnology &
Bioengineering 83 (2003), 810-20;
AJHG 73 (2003), 5-16. Transfer of gene nanocarriers to
the cell nucleus is reported in
PNAS
100 (2003), 3878-82.
Human Genome Project (HGP)
Counting the right number of human genes is discussed in
Science 301 (2003), 1040-1. On evolution of genes,
Genetica 118 (2003), 97-294;
PNAS 100 (2003), 4369-71. Error rates in mitochondrial
DNA sequence are discussed in
Annals of Genetics 67 (2003), 2-4. A 3.9 cM resolution SNP linkage map
of humans is
AJHG 73 (2003),
271-84. On Y chromosome analysis,
Lancet 361 (2003), 2136; and the DNA sequence of human chromosome 7, Nature 424 (2003), 157-64.
A 1Mb radiation hybrid map of canine genome,
PNAS 100 (2003), 5296-301. On the priorities for genome
sequencing,
Science 301 (2003),
1176-7. The genome sequences of 4 phytoplankton have now been completed,
Nature 424 (2003), 1001-2. Telomeres are discussed in
JMG 40 (2003), 385-98. Essential
Bacillus subtilis
genes are identified in
PNAS 100
(2003), 4678-83. The genome of
Neurospora crassa has more genes than
other yeasts,
Current Biology 13
(2003), R552-3. The genome sequence of
Prochlorococcus marinus SS120 has
been determined,
PNAS 100 (2003),
10020-5. On comparative genomics,
Nature 424 (2003), 788-93. Direct haplotyping of long range genomic DNA with
M1-PCR is described in PNAS 100
(2003), 7449-53. Haplotype tagging is described in
PNAS 100 (2003), 9900-5.
The origin of humans is discussed in
SA (July 2003), 13-4; PNAS 100 (2003), 9079-84.
Enlarging the genus
Homo to include
Chimpanzee is
discussed in light of the 99.4% nonsynonymous DNA identity between humans and
chimpanzees,
PNAS 100 (2003), 7181-8;
7684-9;
Current Biology 13
(2003), R464-5;
Lancet 361
(2003), 2004 A discussion of racial diversity is
California Law
Review (2003), 1149-66. On genetic
heterogeneity of Icelanders,
Annals of Human Genetics 67 (2003), 5-16, 281-97.
General Medical Ethics
The Final Communique from the 9th General Assembly of the
Pontifical Academy for Life (PAV) on "Ethics of
Biomedical Research for a Christian Vision" is in Southeast Asian
Center for Bioethics (SEACB) Bioethics Newsletter 15 (March-April
2003), 1-4. Guidance on applying to a REC in the EU is given in
BME 189 (June 2003), 10-11. A report from a clinical
trial in
Thailand is
Issues in Medical Ethics 11 (July 2003), 89-90. Guidance from the European
Group on Ethics on ethical aspects of biomedical research in developing
countries is in
BME 188 (May
2003), 9-11. A comparative survey of the ethical role responsibilities of
Chinese,
American and
Japanese nurses is Nursing
Ethics 10 (2003), 295-311. Professionalism is discussed in
CQHE 12 (2003), 144-86.
Family-centred decision making is discussed in
CQHE 12 (2003), 196-200. A survey in the UK has found
that 95% of neonatal units in the UK did not obtain
parental
consent to what they called routine procedures, including initiation of
mechanical ventilation,
BME 188 (May
2003), 1, 17-9. On the difficulty to read informed consent forms,
BME 188 (May 2003), 3-4. Informed consent is part of
scientific research,
Lancet 361
(2003), 2171.
Ethics in medical photographs are discussed in
Issues in
Medical Ethics 11 (July 2003), 83-4. Ethics
in medical education and training are discussed in
CQHE 12 (2003), 4-115, 119-23.
Law & Medical Ethics
Discussion of the Jesica Santillan case and mismatched
organs is discussed in
HCR 33 (July
2003), 15-20. Medical errors are discussed in
CQHE 12 (2003), 203-7;
BMJ 327 (2003), 13-7, 69. In the NHS surgeon's will now
be required to tell patients when an error occurs,
BMJ 327 (2003), 7. A study of doctors reactions to a
recent patient death is
BMJ 327
(2003), 185-9. The US is attempting to impose limits on malpractice suits,
JAMA 290 (2003), 590;
Lancet 362 (2003), 377. In the UK A-level grades were
predictors of future medical careers,
BMJ 327 (2003), 139-42.
Discussion of ethics in defense research in USA is in
CQHE 12 (2003), 192-5. On protection of research
subjects,
NEJM 349 (2003), 188-9.
Human rights in health practice is reviewed in JAMA 290 (2003), 671-2. Racism
in the medical profession is reported in
BMJ 327 (2003), 1418. The BMA is attempting to improve
its moral authority,
BMJ 327
(2003), 72.
Scientific Ethics
The way that technology shapes ethics is discussed in
Science
& Engineering Ethics 9 (2003), 343-52.
A survey on misconduct in Germany is reported in
Nature 424 (2003), 117. On a German alleged fraud case,
Nature 424 (2003), 243. Papers on the role of scientific
societies
in promoting research integrity are in
Science & Engineering Ethics 9 (2003), 139-290. Authorship is discussed in
CQHE 12 (2003), 124-30;
Science 301 (2003), 733;
BMJ 327 (2003), 348. On impact factors,
Nature 424 (2003), 487. Interpretative bias in research is
discussed in
BMJ 327 (2003),
1453,
Rules on accepting money from drug
industry in USA have tightened, HCR 33 (July
2003), 6-7;
BMJ 327 (2003), 341-2. On
the relations between industry and academia,
Health Law J. 10 (2002), 103-22. The need for scientific exchange
is discussed in
Science 301
(2003), 437;
PNAS 100 (2003),
5575. Defense of military funding is made in
Nature 424 (2003), 369.
Euthanasia & Terminal Care
Euthanasia is
discussed in HCR 33 (July 2003), 44-7;
J. Clinical Ethics 13 (2002), 179-87, 188-202;
BME 187 (May 2003), 7-10; 189 (June 2003), 7-9;
JAMA 289 (2003), 2282-3. Medical necessity is discussed
in
Health Law J. 10 (2002), 1-30.
In
Australia the courts may allow some forms of euthanasia
according to an article in
Bioethics Research Notes 15 (June 2003), 1-4;
MJA 178 (2003), 171-4. A survey of 25 years of
euthanasia in the Netherlands is in
BMJ 327 (2003), 201-2; Lancet
362 (2003), 395-9.
Effects of euthanasia on family and friends in
Netherlands is discussed
in
BMJ 327 (2003), 189-92. Followup to the
Shipman
case in the UK to monitor for mortality rates is being implemented,
Lancet 362 (2003), 485-91. Results of a UK survey on
physician and family assisted suicide is
SSM 57 (2003), 721-31. In July 2003 a bill on euthanasia
was rejected from going to a Select Committee in New Zealand by a conscience
vote in Parliament,
Christchurch Press (8 March 2003), A10.
A
consent process
for dying patients is described in BMJ 327 (2003), 198-200.
Aging self-stereotypes are discussed in J. Gerontology 58B (2003), P203-11, 212-6. On APO allele
variability,
Annals of Human Genetics 67 (2003), 54-62. The disablement process in older Mexican Americans
is reviewed in SSM 57 (2003),
413-25. Nurses experience with patients who refuse food is reviewed in
NEJM 349 (2003), 359-65. Withdrawal of dialysis is
considered in
JAMA 289 (2003),
2113-9. Measuring
disability in the old is discussed in
JAMA 289 (2003), 2387-92, 3239-40. A comparison of
DALY
between Australia and Cameroon is in
SSM
57 (2003), 949-58. A survey of satisfaction of aging persons with the health
service is in
SSM 57 (2003),
757-62.
Ageism is discussed in
SSM 57 (2003), 687-96; BMJ
326 (2003), 1300-1. Religion, spirituality and health are discussed in
MJA 178 (2003), 51-2, 86-8, 415-6;
Lancet 361 (2003), 1603-7.
Biochemistry of aging in
C. elegans is reviewed in
Nature 424 (2003), 259-61, 277-84;
Science 300 (2003), 881; and in
Drosophila,
NatGen 34 (2003), 429-33. On the evolution of aging,
PNAS 100 (2003), 9637-42. Measuring pain in children is
discussed in
BMJ 327 (2003),
1408-9; and on
pain in general,
BMJ 327 (2003), 235; NatMed.
9 (2003), 1003-8. A study of why newborns are killed by their parent is in
JAMA 289 (2003), 1425-9. In general on end of life care,
BMJ 327 (2003), 123. 173-7, 204-7, 207, 213-5, 230, 232;
SSM 57 (2003), 277-88;
JAMA 290 (2003), 73-80;
MJA 178 (2003), 508-9;
AJLM 29 (2003), 45-76. On quality of
end of life care
in
Africa, BMJ 327
(2003), 192-4, 209-13. A comparison of end of life care in 6 European countries
is in
Lancet 362 (2003), 345-50. Effect
of
hospice use on relatives is surveyed in USA in
SSM 57 (2003), 465-75; and the insurance scheme also
affects use,
JAMA 289 (2003),
2238-45. The growing number of people kept alive by respirators in the USA is
reviewed in
SSM 56 (2003),
2249-61.
Organ Transplants & Brain Death
A series of papers in Japanese on
ethics of regenerative medicine are in Clinical
Evaluation (Rinsho Hyoka) 30 (2003), 228-280. A Kerala case of human
organ
sale is Issues in Medical
Ethics 11 (July 2003), 81-2;
NatMed. 9 (2003), 702-12. In Europe there are also sales, Lancet 361 (2003), 1645-8, 2134;
BMJ 326 (2003), 568; 327 (2003), 249;
CMAJ 167 (2002), 1161. Feminist perspectives on
commodification of tissue are in
Developing World Bioethics 2 (2002). Meanings of organ donation differ between
Muslims and Christians in the UK in some ideas,
SSM 57 (2003), 389-401. Oocyte donor motivation is
reviewed in
F&S 79 (2003),
1312-6. A review of body
plastification and display is in
Science 301 (2003), 1172-5;
BMJ 326 (2003), 468. Also on cadavers,
JAMA 290 (2003), 407-8. There are shortages of bodies in
USA for anatomy classes,
Science
299 (2003), 1309.
Diagnosis of
vegetative
state is the topic of a new report by RCP in UK, BME 189 (June
2003), 4-5;
BMJ 327 (2003), 67. A book
review of Lock, M.
Twice Dead: Organ Transplants and the Re-invention
of Death, is
SSM 57 (2003), 763-6. Lessons from cadaveric research in
the UK are in
BME 189 (June
2003), 13-7. On organ retention and the UK Isaacs Report,
BME 189 (June 2003), 18-9. Also on UK guidelines,
BME 188 (May 2003), 13-16;
BMJ 326 (2003), 1051. Use of hemochromatosis patients as
blood dono0rs is discussed,
JAMA
289 (2003), 1364-5.
Consent in
xenotransplants is discussed in Health Law J. 10 (2002), 31-76. The
Indian government is funding research on use of goat cells for liver therapy,
NatMed. 9 (2003), 491. Public consultation is important,
CMAJ 167 (2002), 42-3. In general on research in avoiding
rejection,
NatBio 20 (2002),
231-2.
Tissue regeneration is discussed in
Circulation Research 92 (2003), 579-82;
NEJM 348 (2003), 2355-6; 349 (2003), 570-82;
PNAS 100 (2003), 7430-1;
Cell 113 (2003), 559-62;
NS (16 Aug. 2003), 17;
Current Opinion in
Genetics & Development 13 (2003),
413-22;
Nature 423 (2003), 231-3;
NatBio 20 (2002), 689-96. New
skin has been made in mice from ES cells,
Current Biology 13 (2003), 849-53. On baby teeth stem cells,
JAMA 289 (2003), 2491;
PNAS 100 (25 April 2003);
BMJ 326 (2003), 950. The biology of limb growth is
debated in
NS (29 March 2003),
32-5. Spinal cord regeneration is discussed in
Nature 423 (2003), 112-3.
Shortage of organ
supply is discussed in NEJM 349 (2003), 667-74, 704-6. A Canadian
report is
CMAJ 167 (2002), 1248-9.
Transplantation of the abdominal wall is working for some trials,
Lancet 361 (2003), 2173-6. On heart-lung machines,
SA (July 2003), 68-73. Skin cancers after organ
transplants are discussed in
NEJM
348 (2003), 1681-91; 349 (2003), 612-4. Body technology is reviewed in
Nature 424 (2003), 998-9.
Kidney transplants
are discussed on
NEJM 349 (2003),
125-38, 182-4. Survival after heart transplants is discussed in
BMJ 327 (2003), 509-10. Safety of
living
donors is reexamined in
JAMA 290 (2003),
181-2;
NEJM 348 (2003), 818-25.
Children who receive cochlear implants need protection against bacterial
meningitis,
NEJM 349 (2003),
435-45. Transmission of West Nile virus by organ donation is reported in
NEJM 348 (2003), 2196-203. Kaposi sarcoma can also be
transmitted,
NatMed. 9 (2003),
506-7. Organ transplants in CF patients is discussed in
SSM 56 (2003), 1355-67.
Health Costs
A US Supreme Court case on
insurance is
HCR 33 (July 2003),
10-11. A series of papers on equity, healthcare and development in French are
in
IJB 14 (March 2003), 15-207.
Life expectancy gaps in socio classes are widening,
BMJ 327 (2003), 68. Socioeconomic inequalities in
morbidity among the elderly in Europe are reviewed in
SSM 57 (2003), 861-73. UN plans to help poor people are
discussed in
Lancet 362 (2003),
131.
Long-term care is discussed in
Lancet 361 (2003), 1755.
Prepared by Darryl
Macer
Go back to EJAIB
13 (Sept. 2003)
Go back to EJAIB
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