Eubios Journal of Asian and International Bioethics 13 (2003), 152-158.
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
A review on plant genomics is NatGen 33 Supplement (2003), 294-304. On the sequence of chromosome 10 of rice, Science 300 (2003), 1514-5, 1566+. The goals of nutrigenomics are reviewed in Nature Reviews 4 (2003), 315-22. A case of chloroplast to nucleus gene transfer has been observed and is being studied, NatGen 33 (2003), 442; NatBio 21 (2003), 374-5. A paper on multiherbicide tolerance is NatBio 21 (2003), 428-33; also, TIBTECH 21 (2003), 192-5. Robots to kill weeds may change pollution risks, NS (7 June 2003), 16. Removing marker genes in vegetables is described in NatBio 21 (2003), 439-42.
Modified grass may lessen allergies people have, NS (21 June 2003), 18. Decaffeinated coffee plants have been produced, Nature 423 (2003), 823. The fitness of GM sunflowers and transgene effects for white rot resistance are reported in Science 300 (2003), 1243-4, 1250: AgraFood Biotech 106 (9 June 2003), 28. On the impact of the Green revolution, Science 300 (2003), 758-62; NS (10 May 2003), 9. The targets for transgenic yields are discussed in TIBTECH 21 (2003), 190-2.
Comments on concerNS about GM cotton quality are in Ram's Horn 211 (June 2003), 6-7. A project called Transplant Biopresense is to grow transgenic trees including human DNA from deceased persons, Science 300 (2003), 1501.
Genetic Engineering of Animals
GM mosquitoes may not work so well when competing in the environment, but there is still a long way to go in trials, Science 299 (2003), 1225-7; NatBio 21 (2003), 377. A new report on ELSI issues is Macer, Darryl R.J. Ethical, legal and social issues of genetically modified disease vectors in public health. UNDP/World Bank/WHO Special program for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), Geneva, 2003. The report can be downloaded for free at the Eubios site or WHO site, http://www.who.int/tdr/publications/publications/seb_topic1.htm
There is a ban on cloned horses competing in races but it may not last long, NS (7 June 2003), 5. A report on death of Dolly is NatBio 21 (2003), 349. A cloned mule has been made, Science 300 (2003), 1354. A review of cloning and animal production is FDA Consumer (May 2003), 28-33. A series of papers on electroporation techniques are in Differentiation 70 (2002), 131-80. On animal transgenesis, GEN 23 (1 June 2003), 40-41. Fluorescent GM fish are being sold in Taiwan, Science 300 (2003), 1368. The chicken genome may be completed in draft in March 2004, Science 300 (2003), 1669.
The company that helped to make Dolly, PPL Therapeutics, may collapse following the failure to develop clinical trials of therapeutic AAT protein in their milk, Nature 423 (2003), 907; Science 300 (2003), 2015-6. They have 4000 sheep in New Zealand making On biopharming, NatBio 21 (2003), 480-1. Making drugs in eggs is reviewed in Science 300 (2003), 729-30.
Genetic engineering of an immunotoxin eliminated pulmonary vascular leak in mice, NatBio 21 (2003), 387-91. A review on modeling brain diseases in mice is Nature Reviews 4 (2003), 296-307. Correction of a Parkinsonian rat model by gene transfer is reported in Human Gene Therapy 14 (2003), 415-24. Leuprorelin has helped mice models of atrophy, NatMed. 9 (2003), 768-73. Wild mice in Chicago area have rapidly mutated their mitochondrial DNA for modern lifestyles, Nature 423 (2003), 397. A mouse model for oestrogen receptor is reported in Nature 424 (2003), 108; and a review on models for motor neuron disease is MJA 178 (2003), 311-2.
Designer Molecules
Glycoengineering to improve protein function is reported in NatBio 21 (2003), 414-21. Proteomics is reviewed in NatGen 33 Supplement (2003), 311-23. The proteasome is reviewed in NEJM 348 (2003), 2597-8. Recombinant antibodies can be conformational sensors, Science 300 (2003), 984-7. Cyanobacteria may be able to be made into bioreporters, TIBTECH 21 (2003), 247-9. Anti-cancer antibodies are discussed in NatBio 21 (2003), 510-11.
On biotechnology of biofilms, NatBio 21 (2003), 361-5. A synthetic matrix for bone regrowth has been developed, NatBio 21 (2003), 506-7. Chaperonin-mediated stabilization of semiconductor nanoparticles is discussed in Nature 423 (2003), 628-32.
Organelles have been discovered in bacteria, Nature 423 (2003), 909. Stress can induce mutagenesis in bacteria, Science 300 (2003), 1404-9. Genes and speciation are discussed in Nature 423 (2003), 699-700. On the minimum set of genes for life, NS (31 May 2003), 28-31.
Biotechnology & the Public
A report on how technology could help people in developing countries is Daar, AS. et al. Top 10 Biotechnologies for Improving Health in Developing Countries (Canadian Program on Genomics and Global Health, 2003, 117pp.).
Results of a survey by University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech ApplicatioNS (ISAAA) has found Southeast AsiaNS are positive to biotechnology and have a lot of trust in university scientists and research institute, Crop Biotech Update (Special Edition, 20 May 2003). On Canadian attitudes to biotechnology, AgraFood Biotech 104 (12 May 2003), 28. A review paper is Bonny, S. "Why are most EuropeaNS opposed to GMOs? Factors explaining rejection in France and Europe", Electronic J. Biotechnology 6 (15 April 2003). The consumer fear has restricted science, Scientist (5 May 2003), 52-3. The Danish government is attempting to increase acceptance of biotechnology, Food Chemical News (7 April 2003), 25-6. A discussion of human nature to trust is NS (10 May 2003), 32-7. A review paper is Kalaitzandonakes, N. & Bijman, J. "Who is driving biotechnology acceptance?", NatBio 21 (2003), 366-9. It looks at retailers and their roles. A book review of Making Genes, Making Waves is JAMA 289 (2003), 1998. The UK is attempting to have more input from the public on GMOs, Nature 423 (2003), 672.
On the media and science, NatBio 21 (2003), 353-6. Science cafes are being developed in Cambridge, Science 300 (2003), 2026. The impact of a television documentary in New Zealand and images of doctors is analysed in SSM 57 (2003), 113-24. A web exhibit on genetics is
There have been protests growing about nanotechnology, NS (21 June 2003), 10. The precautionary principle is discussed in NS (17 May 2003), 23. The prebiotic soup and the Miller experiment are revisited in Science 300 (2003), 745-6. On the purpose of evolution, Nature 423 (2003), 686-7.
Regulation & Field Trials of GMOs
The 50th nation has ratified the Cartegena Protocol on Biosafety, so on 11 September 2003 it will enter into force, Nature 423 (2003), 794; AgraEurope (6 June 2003), A1-2. Australia and USA have not signed it. The EU has agreed to new liability rules on GMOs, AgraEurope (20 June 2003), EP6-7. On GMO biosafety research in China, Environ. Biosafety Research 1 (2002), 5-8. South Africa may strength controls, Food Chemical News (28 April 2003), 6. Vietnam is to regulate its biotech industry soon, Food Chemical News (24 March 2003), 8-9.
Support for special regulation over genetic modification is made in GeneWatch UK Briefing 21 (Jan. 2003), 8pp.
The US WTO action against the EU on GMOs is discussed in GeneWatch 16 (May 2003), 11-3; Nature 423 (2003), 269, 903; NS (24 May 2003), 3. European research in GM has decreased and opinioNS are mixed, NatBio 21 (2003), 468-9. A background paper on the economic risks and opportunities from release of GMOs in New Zealand was made to the Ministry for the Environment, New Zealand, in March 2003 by CSAFE. New Zealand is expecting to have GM and organic co-exisitng, AgraFood Biotech 103 (28 April 2003), 2-6. The economic benefit will not be great. The Nuffield Council has released a followup on Genetically modified crops emphasizing that developing countries need GM crops, Agrafood Biotech 106 (9 June 2003), 20-1. The ICSU has announced the widest review of scientific data and considers GM crops safe to eat though still has environmental doubts, ICSU, New Genetics, Food and Agriculture: Scientific Discorives - Societal Dilemmas (2003), AgraFood Biotech 107 (23 June 2003), 5.
The US EPA approved rootworm-resistant GM corn "YieldGard Rootworm corn", NatBio 21 (2003), 351. HumaNS are responsible for some GM dispersal, AgraFood Biotech 107 (23 June 2003), 25. Dustclouds may carry some infectious organisms, SA (July 2003), 10-1. On evolution of salmon egg size, Science 300 (2003), 895. Escaped farm salmon may still threaten native salmon, NS (7 June 2003), 6. A method to top genes escaping is discussed in NS (10 May 2003), 14-5.
Bioterrorism is challenging the right to research, Nature Reviews 4 (2003), 248; Nature 423 (2003), 571, 669; Science 300 (2003), 1847; SA (June 2003), 14-5. At the same time the US army was issued a patent for a bioweapoNS grenade, Nature 423 (2003), 789. A discussion of Boston University's plaNS for a US$1.6 billion P4 biodefence laboratory in Boston are discussed in GeneWatch 16 (May 2003), 9-10. On the costs of building labs, Science 300 (2003), 1110. Other research is discussed in NatBio 21 (2003), 469-70. On the purchase of anthrax vaccine in the USA, Science 300 (2003), 877. On characterization of anthrax, AJPH 93 (2003), 886-93. Books on bioterrorism are reviewed in JAMA 289 (2003), 1571, 1574. Actors are being used to make medical staff aware of what smallpox looks like, NatMed. 9 (2003), 489. On terrorism in general, BMJ 326 (2003), 989. A call for Iraqi scientists to disclose any bioweapoNS details is made in SA (June 2003), 24-5. There is still not much collaboration between former Soviet bioweapoNS researchers and Western ones, Nature 423 (2003), 678-80. Modeling of smallpox is in Science 300 (2003), 1503-4; and see the Vaccines News for smallpox vaccine efforts.
Vaccines & Diseases
There has been much criticism because on unclear benefits and risks of smallpox vaccination, Science 300 (2003), 880-1, 2013-4; HCR 33 (March 2003), 6-7; JAMA 289 (2003), 1497-8, 1512-3, 2064, 2198-9, 2351-3; NEJM 348 (2003), 1920-5; FDA Consumer (March 2003), 28-9; Lancet 361 (2003), 1626. Those previously immunized to smallpox may have some long-lasting immunity, BMJ 326 (2003), 1164-5.
In general on the safety of vaccines, BMJ 326 (2003), 995-6. On MMR vaccine safety, BMJ 326 (2003), 1272. Refusal of parents to vaccinate is discussed in MJA 178 (2003), 150-1. A case study of trust and vaccination in a village in North India is in SSM 57 (2003), 97-112. Pakistan needs help in polio vaccination, Lancet 361 (2003), 1876.
GM vaccines are discussed in NatMed. 9 (2003), 642-3, 729-35. Tuberculosis vaccine development is discussed in NatMed. 9 (2003), 503-4, 533-9; and Leishmania vaccine in Nature 423 (2003), 580-2. Tuberculosis has been associated with a polymorphism at the gamma interferon gene site, Lancet 361 (2003), 1871-2. Malaria vaccine is discussed in Lancet 361 (2003), 1875. Prediction of malaria epidemics is possible at times, Lancet 361 (2003), 1705-6; also see BMJ 326 (2003), 951; Lancet 361 (2003), 1530. ApoE2 may be a risk factor for early malaria infection, JMG 40 (2003), 348-51. On Alzheimer disease vaccine, NatMed. 9 (2003), 389-90. Human genetics and Norwalk virus resistance is discussed in NatMed. 9 (2003), 548-53.
The ethical issues of SARS are discussed in HCR 33 (May 2003), 6; EJAIB 13 (2003), 107-8. Ethical issues for childhood tetanus are discussed in MJA 178 (2003), 150, 175-7.
The politics and science of SARS is discussed in many journals, e.g. Science 300 (2003), 701, 714-8, 886-7, 1062-3, 1216, 1351, 1377-8, 1394-9, 1399-404, 1487-8, 1884-5; Lancet 361 (2003), 947-8, 999, 1485-7, 1519-20, 1525, 1615-6, 1625, 1665, 1708-9, 1712, 1730-3, 1739-40, 1756-7, 1761-72, 1773-8, 1779-85, 1905, 1984-5, 1996; JAMA 289 (2003), 2059, 2349-51, 2787-9, 2801-9, 2861; NatMed. 9 (2003), 479, 487; NEJM 348 (2003), 1947-9, 1953-66, 1977-85, 1995-2005, 2029-31, 2035, 2149; Nature 423 (2003), 103, 214, 370-1, 381, 467, 585, 791, 905-6; SA (June 2003), 10-1; (July 2003), 4; MJA 178 (2003), 478-9; BMJ 326 (2003), 897, 929, 938-9, 948, 1055, 1095, 1232, 1624.
The single cow killed in January 2003 in Alberta, Canada, but diagnosed in May 2003 with BSE, has shown that BSE is also found in North America, Ram's Horn 211 (June 2003), 1-2; NS (31 May 2003), 6-7. Eating wild game can be fatal through prion disease, JAMA 289 (2003), 1369-70; SA (July 2003), 26-31. In general on prion disease, Science 300 (2003), 917-8; Lancet 361 (2003), 1964. On death and disease in Papua New Guinea, MJA 178 (2003), 7-8.
A plan to sequence every known human virus has been announced, Nature 423 (2003), 471. West Nile virus is discussed in MJA 178 (2003), 5-6; JAMA 289 (2003), 2341-2.; NS (7 June 2003), 41-3; NatMed. 9 (2003), 488. Monkeypox virus recently caused disease in the USA, NS (14 June), 9; (21 June 2003), 12; Nature 423 (2003), 674.
AIDS & Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Ethical issues of HIV in the workplace are discussed in Nursing Ethics 10 (2003), 281-94. On HIV screening policies, BMJ 326 (2003), 1174. On education about AIDS, Lancet 361 (2003), 1526-7, 1711; AJPH 93 (2003), 861-987. A book review on AIDS in India is Nature 423 (2003), 685-6.
The US NIH is limiting therapeutic trials of HIV/AIDS to those countries which will follow-up with treatment, NatMed. 9 (2003), 629; see also, Science 300 (2003), 1212-3. On the costs of anti-HIV drugs, NEJM 348 (2003), 1806-8; JAMA 289 (2003), 2648-9. The need for a global HIV vaccine enterprise is made in Science 300 (2003), 2036-9. Also on vaccines, JAMA 289 (2003), 1491.
Microbes & Pollution Remedies
Detoxification of vinyl chloride to ethane by a bacteria is reported in Nature 424 (2003), 62-5. Phytoremediation may release TCE to the atmosphere, EST 37 (2003), 206A. On remediating chlorinated solvent sources, EST 37 (2003), 225-30A.
Environmental Issues
Many environmental organizatioNS are less radical then they used to be, NS (21 June 2003), 40-3. An interview with Bjorn Lomborg is in Nature 423 (2003), 216-8. The roots of environmentalism in the Thirlmere conservation in the 19th century are reviewed in Science 300 (2003), 1510-1.
Although the USA as a nation has not joined the Kyoto Protocol, a number of cities and states has agreed to plaNS in line with the Protocol, SA (June 2003), 12-3. Carbon flux is discussed in Science 300 (2003), 1242-3. Climate forcing by aerosols is hazy, Science 300 (2003), 1103-4. On climate change, Science 300 (2003), 1519-22. Europe's terrestrial ecosystem absorbs 7-12% of European anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions, Science 300 (2003), 1538-42. Climate change has increased primary production, Science 300 (2003), 1560-3. The impact of household technology in Kenya is assessed in EST 37 (2003), 2051-9.
On solar-powered flight, NS (7 June 2003), 14-5. Solar panel technology is improving, Science 300 (2003), 1219. On the impact of urbanization and land-use change on climate, Nature 423 (2003), 528-31. Molecular fuel tanks are reviewed in Science 300 (2003), 1104-5.
The impact of air pollution on health is discussed in MJA 178 (2003), 359-60. Vehicle fumes increase the risk of asthma in children, NS (31 May 2003), 7. A greener catalyst is reported in Nature 423 (2003), 930-1; Science 300 (2003), 2022-3.
The radiation safety regimes are being changed with new data, NS (3 May 2003), 9. There are health concerNS over battlefield uranium, JAMA 289 (2003), 1621-3. The US military has sought exemptioNS from US environmental law, EST 37 (2003), 211A. A review of the 2003 NRPB report on UK nuclear test veteraNS is Lancet 361 (2003), 1759-60. Widespread dioxin pollution alters human responses to estrogens, Nature 423 (2003), 487-8; Science 300 (2003), 1069.
A US CDC report on environmental toxiNS is introduced in JAMA 289 (2003), 1230-1; and on ecotoxicology, EST 37 (2003), 199A. Clear-cutting forestry practices lead to more mercury run-off, EST 37 (2003), 200-1A. On industrial pollution, JAMA 289 (2003), 1706-7. The New York state Adirondack lakes are showing sigNS of recovery from acid rain, EST 37 (2003), 202-3A. Linking genes to environmental diseases is reviewed in Science 300 (2003), 563.
A discussion of engineering projects to change water flow is NS (7 June 2003), 30-4. The water shortage is discussed in Science 300 (2003), 1238. The quality of tap and bottle water is discussed in SA (June 2003), 23. In general on environmental disaster, Nature 423 (2003), 803-4.
Biodiversity
Diversity studies should also consider the organisms inside the soil, Nature 424 (2003), 26-7. The cryptic herbivores of the rinaforest canopy are discussed in Science 300 (2003), 916-7. A book review of Deforesting the Earth is Science 300 (2003), 907-8; and on the stability of forest biodiversity, Nature 423 (2003), 635-8. The relationship of forest fires to boreal forest is reported in Science 300 (2003), 972-5. A discussion of the Three Gorges Dam in China as habitat fragmentation is Science 300 (2003), 1239-40; and on protecting China's biodiversity in general, Science 300 (2003), 1240-1. Glacial refugia are hotspots of diversity, Science 300 (2003), 1563-5.
Over-fishing is reviewed in SA (July 2003), 34-9. Canada has cut cod-fishing but Europe has not, Nature 423 (2003), 212; NS (14 June 2003), 8. Ocean-friendly labels are discussed in NS (17 May 2003), 5. The Pew OceaNS Commission has called for a change in US ocean policy, Science 300 (2003), 1484-5; Nature 423 (2003), 577. The survival of gray whales off Russia as oil is developed is uncertain, Science 300 (2003), 1365. On conservation, NS (24 May 2003), 7, 25. Run off to the sea may destroy coral reefs, NS (7 June 2003), 8.
A report from the UK on the role of field sports in conservation is Nature 423 (2003), 531-3. The loss of mammoths from North America may be linked to human settlement, Science 300 (2003), 1373-4. The Permian extinction is discussed in Nature 423 (2003), 384. On conservation policy, Science 300 (2003), 1508-9. Australia researchers may have too hastily destroyed wheat varieties after a virus infection, which was later found to already be present in Australia, Nature 423 (2003), 210.
Animal Rights and the Mind
Neuroethics is discussed in AIBA Newslink 6 (June 2003), 1-2. Animal rights are questioned in National Catholic Bioethics Quarterly 3 (2003), 287-308. Whaling is discussed in NS (24 May 2003), 11; (21 June 2003), 3, 7. Strict laws can make research designed to benefit animals also difficult, Science 300 (2003), 1486. Fish lips may feel pain, Science 300 (2003), 897. Attitudes to animal experiments in UK and France are discussed in ATLA 31 (2003), 83-4. Transgenic mice may be an alternative to monkeys for testing of live polio vaccine now, Bulletin WHO 81 (2003), 251-60.
A review of the FOXP2 gene and language ability story is in Wellcome News Q1 (2003), 14-5. On somatosensory basis of speech, Nature 423 (2003), 866-9. A book review of Original Intelligence about chimpanzees is Science 300 (2003), 2034-5. The family tree of great apes has chimpanzees and human closest, NS (24 May 2003), 15. A book review of The Face in the Mirror: The Search for the OrigiNS of Consciousness is in Nature 424 (2003), 15-6. A discussion of how one mind can read another is in Science 300 (2003), 1079-80; Nature 423 (2003), 227. How a single neuron can learn associatioNS is discussed in Science 300 (2003), 1578-81. On the cortex and mind, Nature 423 (2003), 383-4; and emotions, NS (21 June 2003), 56. The oldest American idol has been found as a 4000 year old etching on a gourd, Science 300 (2003), 733. The idea of wiring soldier's braiNS to become remote control agents is discussed in Nature 423 (2003), 796-8. Ethics of neuroengineering should be discussed, Nature 423 (2003), 787. Robot mimicry is discussed in NS (31 May 2003), 17. Anger and fear through facial communication is reported in Science 300 (2003), 1536. Facial expressioNS are linked to monkey calls, Nature 423 (2003), 937.
Safety of Recombinant DNA Products
The FDA has approved HUMIRA (adalimimab) for treating rheumatoid arthritis, FDA Consumer (March 2003), 5. Interferon alfa-2b and ribavirin works to treat chronic hepatitis C, MJA 178 (2003), 267-71. Use of interferoNS for MS is discussed in Lancet 361 (2003), 1821-5. IL-2 can be used to increase antiviral T-cell responses, NatMed. 9 (2003), 540-7. Debates over the use of TPA for stroke continue, JAMA 289 (2003), 1363-4. On erythropoietin and transfusions, JAMA 289 (2003), 1511-2.
A review of sepsis treatment is NatMed. 9 (2003), 517+. Letters on human growth hormone and aging are in NEJM 348 (2003), 2256-7. In athletics the main doping tools seem to be blood transfusioNS and saline injection, BBC Sport (9 June 2003). The UK regulation of human tissue engineered products is discussed in BMJ 326 (2003), 1159-60.
Food safety
The debate over US food aid containing GM food continues, NatBio 21 (2003), 346-7; Nature 423 (2003), 367, 369; NS (24 May 2003), 5; (14 June 2003), 3; Lancet 361 (2003), 1798. On GM food in Germany, NatBio 21 (2003), 351. US GM food regulatioNS are unlikely to change, Nature 423 (2003), 574. A summary of GM products on the market is on whybiotech.com; AgraFood Biotech 102 (15 April 2003), 3-7. In the UK there is a claim that selling GM food will increase food costs, AgraFood Biotech 105 (26 May 2003), 8-9. MEPs have voted for a 0.5% GM threshold, AgraFood Biotech 105 (26 May 2003), 1-2. Sale of products from cloned animals may be allowed in Japan, APBN 7 (2003), 412. Evaluation of GM food allergeNS is discussed in TIBTECH 21 (2003), 249-50.
Inhibition of hypothalamic carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 decreases food intake, NatMed. 9 (2003), 756-61. Obesity in Australia is discussed in MJA 178 (2003), 422-3, 427-32. Drugs for obesity are tested in NEJM 348 (2003), 2082-90. On genetics and obesity, NEJM 348 (2003), 2138-9. In general on obesity, Science 300 (2003), 1091-2; NEJM 348 (2003), 2161-2, 2595-6. Mouse studies suggest that fasting every second day is a good way to reduce weight, NS (3 May 2003), 14-5. The WHO faces difficulties in its diet and health strategy, Lancet 361 (2003), 1707; NS (3 May 2003), 12-3, 23.
Increased vegetable consumption has been urged, nine servings a day of fruit and vegetables for men, BMJ 326 (2003), 1003. Dietary fibre and colorectal cancer is discussed in Lancet 361 (2003), 1487, 1491-5, 1496-501. Salt and hypertension is discussed in Science 300 (2003), 1350. Optimal diets to avoid heart disease are discussed in JAMA 289 (2003), 1509-10. Micronutrient deficiency is a common cause of mortality, Bulletin WHO 81 (2003), 79. Inertia on folic acid supplements may have caused many deaths, BMJ 326 (2003), 1054. WHO and FAO are calling for increased food safety, Bulletin WHO 81 (2003), 315.
Mercury consumption in dolphin and whale meat in Japan is reported in EST 37 (2003), 2681-5.
A genetic polymorphism in DRD2 gene among social drinkers is reported in AJMG 119A (2003), 152-5. A consumption of 1-6 drinks a week is associated with a lower risk of dementia than abstention, JAMA 289 (2003), 1405-13. On alcohol adverts for adolescents, JAMA 289 (2003), 2424-9, 2645-6. Alcohol dependence is a serious disease, Lancet 361 (2003), 1666-7.
Disease Risks & Drugs
On the dangers of herbal supplements like kava kava, NatMed. 9 (2003), 634-5. There are differences in mercury levels in the hair of children with autism, NS (21 June 2003), 4.
An article on the impact of conflict and war on nursing and ethics is Nursing Ethics 10 (2003), 354-67.
Patenting & Business
The Canadian Supreme Court rejection of patents on human DNA and animals is discussed in NatBio 21 (2003), 341. The US patent office strategic plan may penalize biotechnology companies, NatBio 21 (2003), 345-6. The public may often not know about the data over patenting and commodification, Health Law Review 11 (No. 2, 2003), 3-7.
Canadian restrictioNS on drug adverts are discussed in Health Law Review 11 (No. 2, 2003), 30-7.
Birth Control
A series of papers from different countries on integration of reproductive and sexual health services is in Reproductive Health Care Matters 11 (2003), 6-191. Several papers on contraception and natural family planning are in National Catholic Bioethics Quarterly 3 (2003), 23-44; Bulletin of WHO 81 (2003), 146. A book review of Sex Ratios is Science 300 (2003), 123-4. On persistent myths of human foreskin, MJA 178 (2003), 155, 178-9. On African Food security, Science 300 (2003), 2033. In Japan the government has been attempting to promote more births and dating between young persons, Asahi Shimbun (9 June 2003).
Sex trafficking and prostitution are discussed in Lancet 361 (2003), 1981, 1983. A review of sexual behaviour in human males is AJPH 93 (2003), 894-8.
A link between estrogen and leukemia has been found, Lancet 361 (2003), 1627. On risks of dementia, JAMA 289 (2003), 2651-62, 2717-9. QOL effects may not be significant overall, NEJM 348 (2003), 1839-54. Also on HRT, MJA 178 (2003), 412-3; BMJ 326 (2003), 1161.
Embryo Status
The role of fetal imaging technology in the maternal-fetal relationship is discussed in JAMA 289 (2003), 1700. Mistakes in US cystic fibrosis tests may have meant there have been mistaken diagnoses leading to abortions, NS (3 May 2003), 4-6. The challenges of high maternal mortality in Nigeria are discussed in Lancet 361 (2003), 1966. The normalization of the "abortion pill" into mainstream medicine is discussed in SSM 58 (2003), 2353-66.
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
The role of FDA in regulation of human cloning is discussed in HCR 33 (May 2003), 7-8. On the ethics of cloning, Dinc, L. "Ethical issues regarding human cloning: a nursing perspective", Nursing Ethics 10 (2003), 238-54; Nature 424 (2003), 14; SA (April 2003), 21; Science 300 (2003), 2031-2; NatMed. 9 (2003), 502; Itinerarium 11 (2003), 71-106. Also on the confusion over the definition of cloning, HCR 33 (May 2003), 11-18. The question of how many zygotes and embryos that are useful for ES research is discussed in Science 300 (2003), 1083; Nature 423 (2003), 213. Stem cell politics are discussed in Science 300 (2003), 865; NatBio 21 (2003), 588-9; SA (July 2003), 24-5. Germany is pushing for a ban on all cloning, Nature 423 (2003), 373. Canada is considering approving some research, Nature 423 (2003), 374. The AMA has supported research on stem cells, Nature 423 (2003), 911. An international website to collate data on stem cells is being made, Nature 423 (2003), 578, 911-2. Standards for stem cells are called for in Science 300 (2003), 913-6; also NS (17 May 2003), 12-3. A Japanese research team has made embryonic stem cells Nature 423 (2003), 577-8.
Human embryo research is discussed in Um, Y-R. "South Korea: Human embryo research", CQHE 12 (2003), 268-78; National Catholic Bioethics Quarterly 3 (2003), 111-38; NatBio 21 (2003), 482-3. A paper on use of embryos is Fitzpatrick, W. "Surplus embryos, nonreproductive cloning, and the intend/forsee distinction", HCR 33 (May 2003), 29-36.
The ethical issues in use of ART are discussed in SA (June 2003), 51-5. The ethical issues of using artificial eggs and sperm is discussed in NS (10 May 2003), 3-5. Oocytes have been spontaneously generated, Science 300 (2003), 721; 1251-6. Surrogacy is discussed in National Catholic Bioethics Quarterly 3 (2003), 309-30. Posthumous sperm retrieval is debated in Lancet 361 (2003), 1834. A Japanese panel has recommended against egg and sperm donation from siblings, Lancet 361 (2003), 1532.
A survey of the situation of US fertility clinics in 2002 is reported in F&S 79 (2003), 1060+. A book review of IVF Children is JAMA 289 (2003), 2288-9. Zygotic splitting rates after single embryo transfers are discussed in NEJM 348 (2003), 2366-7. Use of ART and association with rare congenital disorders is discussed in Lancet 361 (2003), 1975-7. The question whether infertility medicatioNS affect breast cancer risk is debated in F&S 79 (2003), 844-55. Use of recombinant chorionic gonadotropin in induction of ovulation is reported in F&S 79 (2003), 1051-9; also, F&S 79 (2003), 1037+..
Fetal Environment & Neonates
On consumption of coffee in pregnancy, BMJ 326 (2003), 1268-9. The mercury levels in fish may be a risk factor for fetuses and young children, Lancet 361 (2003), 1667-8. Also on mercury risks, NS (14 June 2003), 7; JAMA 289 (2003), 1667-74. A link between diabetic environment in utero and diabetes susceptibility is discussed in Lancet 361 (2003), 1839-40, 1861-5. DES exposure is discussed in JAMA 289 (2003), 1624. On the status of fetuses and pregnant women in US law, JAMA 289 (2003), 1697-8. The maternal-fetal relationship is discussed in JAMA 289 (2003), 1696, 1701. The average energy intake among pregnant women carrying a boy is higher than those carrying a girl, BMJ 326 (2003), 1245-6.
A book review discussing childbirth is in JAMA 289 (2003), 2430-1. On early modern childbirth, AJPH 93 (2003), 432. A Taiwanese study of preferences for cesarean sectioNS between patients and physiciaNS is SSM 57 (2003), 91-6.
A rare disorder has been confused with child abuse sometimes, NS (7 June 2003), 4-5; Science 300 (2003), 1858. The US HHS blueprint on breast feeding is described in FDA Consumer (May 2003), 12-7. Breast feeding and labour market policy is discussed in SSM 57 (2003), 167-77. Supplements for formula milk are discussed in BMJ 326 (2003), 953-5. There are some concerNS about soy-based formula in infants, NS (17 May 2003), 10.Down syndrome screening tests can be used to predict low birth weight, Prenatal Diagnosis 23 (2003), 420-6. Bed sharing with infants is a growing practice in the USA, JAMA 289 (2003), 2051. On pediatric drug testing, NatMed. 9 (2003), 631.
Adolescent health in the Caribbean is discussed in AJPH 93 (2003), 456-60. On psychiatric drugs in children, Science 300 (2003), 901. ADHD and genetics is discussed in AJMG 119B (2003), 77-85, 86-97. Healthy environments for children are needed, Bulletin WHO 81 (2003), 157. Booster seats can help avoid injuries to children through age 7 years, JAMA 289 (2003), 2835-40. A book review on Nature via Nurture is Science 300 (2003), 1879-80. The adult amygdalar response to novelty is discussed in Science 300 (2003), 1952-3.
Genetic Disease Markers
The genetics and genomics of cancer is reviewed in NatGen 33 Supplement (2003), 238-44. A survey has found 2667 sense-antisense pairs of genes in the human genome suggesting that sense-antisense regulation of gene expression is common, NatBio 21 (2003), 379-86.
The difficulties of elucidating genotypes for complex phenotypes are discussed in NatGen 33 Supplement (2003), 228-37; Nature Reviews 4 (2003), 309-14. MutatioNS in cytoskeletal protein filamin A cause diverse malformatioNS in humans, NatGen 33 (2003), 487-91. Sometimes the phenotypic features of genetic diseases are unclear for clinicians, NatGen 33 (2003), 440-2.
Genetic Screening Methodology
Mammography screening may half cancer mortality, BMJ 326 (2003), 949. The racial differences in breast cancer screening in the USA are reported in AJPH 93 (2003), 618-23. Use of CAT scaNS for cancer screening is discussed in BMJ 326 (2003), 894-5. A hand-held scanner for cancer screening has been made, NS (14 June 2003), 15.
The possibility of testing inside living cells is reviewed in Nature 423 (2003), 10-2. Use of proteiNS for diagnostics is discussed in Science 300 (2003), 236-9. Newborn screening use mass spectrometry is reviewed in NEJM 348 (2003), 2304-12. The potential of misdiagnosis with imaging is discussed in BMJ 326 (2003), 1273.
Prenatal diagnosis of fetal hemoglobulin E gene from maternal plasma is discussed in Prenatal Diagnosis 23 (2003), 393-6. On ultrasound in pregnancy and ethical dilemmas, SSM 56 (2003), 2045-57. CVS can be reliably used for prenatal diagnosis, with advanced maternal age being a risk factor for fetal loss, Prenatal Diagnosis 23 (2003), 295-301.
DNA Fingerprinting & Privacy
Discussion of the UK national DNA database for criminals is Lancet 361 (2003), 1841-2. UK biobank is discussed in Lancet 361 (2003), 1734-8; NS (10 May 2003), 25. There will also be a tumour bank to match biobank, NatMed. 9 (2003), 491. An African American biobank has been proposed, Science 300 (2003), 1485. The genetic heterozygosity of Icelanders is summarized in Annals of Human Genetics 67 (2003), 5-16. The use of race and ethnicity in publication is reviewed in JAMA 289 (2003), 2709-16. Geocoding public health data is discussed in AJPH 93 (2003), 699-701.
A comment on the UK Human Genetics Commission report on genes direct is in BME 187 (2003), 3-5. Leprosy discrimination is reviewed in Sato, H. & Narita, M. "Politics of leprosy segregation in Japan: The emergence, transformation and abolition of the patient segregation policy", SSM 57 (2003), 2529-39. Stigma is discussed in SSM 57 (2003), 2191-200; MJA 178 (2003), S47-8. On identification of bodies in a mass grave, BMJ 326 (2003), 1110; and including the World Trade center human identification project, Croatian Med. J. 44 (2003), 251-341.
The sharing of patient information between professionals is discussed in MJA 178 (2003), 277-9. Beyond the legal duties of privacy is often needed, MJA 178 (2003), 252-3. Disclosure of genetic information inside families is discussed in papers in AJMG 119C (2003), 51-9. Disclosure of genetic information to adopted children is discussed in AJMG 119C (2003), 41-6. The US may pass a genetic privacy protection bill, Nature 423 (2003), 472. Genetic discrimination is discussed in AJLM 29 (2003), 77-116. Quebec has published an opinion statement "The ethical issues of genetic databases: Towards democratic and responsible regulation",
Ethics & Genetic Screening
Carrier testing in hemophilia A is discussed in AJMG 119C (2003), 3-10. Genetic testing in the family is discussed in AJMG 119C (2003), 1-85. Mistakes in CF tests may have lead to false positives with couples deciding to terminate pregnancy based on the incorrect data, NS (3 May 2003), 3-6. On mistakes in prostrate cancer screening, AJPH 93 (2003), 779-85. The reasoNS why women accept or decline BRCA tests is discussed in AJMG 119A (2003), 201-9, 266-72. On counseling, BMJ 326 (2003), 1247-50; MJA 178 (2003), 77-81. InteractioNS of genetic counselors with genetic testing labs is discussed in AJMG 119A (2003), 297-301. Participation of geneticists in genetic advocacy groups is reviewed in AJMG 119A (2003), 89-92.
A new book is Glasa, J., ed., Ethics of Human Genetics. Challenges of the (Post) Genomic Era (Strasbourg: Council of Europe, 2002, 228pp.). It includes a number of papers on medical genetics and ethics from Eastern Europe. On genetics and nursing, Nursing Ethics 10 (2003), 255-68, 323-5; and the text of a statement from the International Council of Nurses is at
A summary of the report, Contraception for People with Mental Retardation (Health Council of the Netherlands, 2002) is Network 18 (May 2003), 7-9. A paper on genetic screening and disability rights in the UK is in CQHE 12 (2003), 235-41. The narrowing of the terms of the AmericaNS with Disabilities Act in the courts in USA is reviewed in HCR 33 (March 2003), 9-10; AJPH 93 (2003), 540-4. An essay on Carrie Buck and eugenics is HCR 33 (March 2003), 14-7. On eugenics and infanticide, National Catholic Bioethics Quarterly 3 (2003), 265-74. Human nature is discussed in papers in NS (24 May 2003), 37-56. On gene-environment interaction, SSM 56 (2003), 2327-42; NatMed. 9 (2003), 501.
Gene Therapy
On the FDA regulation of gene therapy, NatBio 21 (2003), 344-5. Harmful potential of viral vectors is discussed in Nature 423 (2003), 573-4; NS (7 June 2003), 17. A call to slowdown the research in gene therapy because of the risk of germline change is King, NMP. "Accident and desire: Inadvertent germline effects in clinical research", HCR 33 (March 2003), 23-30. Also on the general issue of germline change, Frankel, M. "Inheritable genetic modification and a brave new world", HCR 33 (March 2003), 31-6, 2-3; NS (10 May 2003), 54. A collection of papers is Furten, EJ., ed., What is Man, O Lord? The Human Person in a Biotech Age (Eighteenth Workshop for Bishops, 2002, National Catholic Bioethics Center, Boston, 259pp.). Wrinle therapy is discussed in NS (24 May 2003), 9.
Engineering mice genomes with bacterial artificial chromosomes has been successful, NatBio 21 (2003), 443-7, 447-51. Chimeric nucleases stimulate gene targeting in human cells, Science 300 (2003), 763-4. Lengthening of telomeres and cancer is discussed in Lancet 361 (2003), 1840; Nature 423 (2003), 926-7. RNA interferences methods may not be so specific, NS (24 May 2003), 16. On research in gene therapy, GEN 23 (15 May 2003), 8, 10, 49. Bacteria genetically modified to make a drug have been given to people in a trial against inflammatory bowel disease, NS (21 June 2003), 23. Gene transfer as a tool to induce vascular growth is discussed in NatMed. 9 (2003), 694-701. A gene therapy trial against tumours is reported in NatMed. 9 (2003), 789-95.
Human Genome Project (HGP)
A new book is Biesboer, F., Genomics, Dreams, fears and fantasies: Public embedding of genomics research (Netherlands Genomics Initiative, 2003113pp., ISBN 90-807357-2-X;). On the relationship between evolution of genetics and faith, Finlay, G. "Homo divinus: The ape that bears God's image", Science and Christian Belief 15 (2003), 17-40. Catholic reflectioNS on the human genome are in National Catholic Bioethics Quarterly 3 (2003), 275-86. A review book on the 50th anniversary of the structure of DNA is DNA50 Council, The Secret of Life (Faircount, 2003, ISBN 1-84369-256-2), 176pp.). Also on the 50th anniversary, NatGen 33 (2003), 431-2, 445-54; Nature Reviews 4 (2003), 243-6. Other comments include JAMA 289 (2003), 2870-1.
The current estimate of the human gene count is around 25,000, Science 300 (2003), 1484-5; Nature 423 (2003), 576. Defining genes is reviewed in Science 300 (2003), 258-60. A summary of the errors in published mitochondrial DNA sequences in different journals found 58% of 137 papers had sequence errors, Annals of Human Genetics 67 (2003), 2-4. On the quality of SNPs databases, NatGen 33 (2003), 457-9. The human chromosome 7 sequence is in Science 300 (2003), 767-73. On the Y chromosome, Nature 423 (2003), 223, 810-2, 825-37, 873-6. The function of noncoding DNA and junk DNA is discussed in Science 300 (2003), 1246-7.
Ethnic differences and disease phenotypes are discussed in Science 300 (2003), 739-40. Pharmacogenetics is discussed in NEJM 348 (2003), 2041-3. The genomes to life program is discussed in Science 300 (2003), 290-1. A company involved in HapMap project is in a legal battle, Nature 423 (2003), 470. For comments on HapMap project and ethics, EJAIB 13 (2003), 125-7.
A new institute called the Broad Institute (after the benefactor) is being founded to find genetic cures, Science 300 (2003), 1856-7. University of Washington has also received a large donation from Gates Foundation to establish a centre there, Science 300 (2003), 723. The second chromosome sequence of Streptomyces is discussed in NatBio 21 (2003), 505-6, 526-31. On yeast genome comparisons, Nature 423 (2003), 233-4, 241-54.
Papers on human evolution and genetics are in NatGen 33 Supplement (2003), 255-75; 33 (2003), 435-6, 518-21; Nature Reviews 4 (2003), 275-84. A paper on Y chromosome STR haplotypes and genetic structure of US populatioNS of African, European and Hispanic ancestry is in Genome Research 13 (2003), 624-34. The Y chromosome in Polynesia is evidence of a slave trade, AJHG 72 (2003), 1282-7. Human history is discussed in Nature 423 (2003), 468, 742-7, 747-52; NS (31 May 2003), 32-5; Science 300 (2003), 267-8. A gene map for horse is in Genome Research 13 (2003), 742-51. E2F-1 overexpression sensitizes colorectal cancer cells to camptothecin, Cancer Gene Therapy 10 (2003), 168-78. The return of museum bones is discussed in NS (31 May 2003), 5, 12-3.
General Medical Ethics
A new book is Fogel, JA. & Baxter, JC. Historiography and Japanese Consciousness of Values and Norms (International Research Center for Japanese Studies, 2002, 242pp.). A review of the activities of Japan Secret Police in 1937-1945 revealed a similar level of verbal subversion and satire against the war and Emperor compared to other countries, Japan Review 15 (2003), 127-51. A brief paper on bioethics in Japan is in CQHE 12 (2003), 261-4. Japanese nurses ideas on patient advocacy are discussed in Nursing Ethics 10 (2003), 404-13. A comparison is made in Pang, SM. et al. "A comparative study of Chinese, American and Japanese nurses' perceptioNS of ethical role responsibilities", Nursing Ethics 10 (2003), 295-311. Family centred decision making is discussed in CQHE 12 (2003), 196-200.
A call for changing the term lethal disease to something less threatening is made in HCR 33 (March 2003), 37-41. A UK survey found patients prefer to have medical names than common names for diseases, BMJ 326 (2003), 1105. The reasonable limits of use of doctors time are discussed in BMJ 326 (2003), 1277. Papers on medical professionalism are in CQHE 12 (2003), 141-86.
The ethics of clinical research is discussed in HCR 33 (May 2003), 2-3, 19-28; BMJ 326 (2003), 1199-201. The statement of the Pontifical Academy for Life on "Ethics of biomedical research for a Christian Vision" is in Southeast Asian Center for Bioethics Bioethics Newsletter XV (March 2003), 1-4. An English translation of a recent French National Bioethics Committee report on doing phase 1 studies of cytotoxic drugs in cancer patients is BME 187 (2003), 20-1.
The decision making for children in research is discussed in Health Law Review 11 (No. 2, 2003), 20-9. Ethical issues in medical education are discussed in 10 papers in CQHE 12 (2003), 1-115.
Law & Medical Ethics
France is expected to revise its bioethics laws, NatBio 21 (2003), 113-4, 349. The French Supreme Court has ended the tainted blood saga, Science 300 (2003), 2019. A conference proceedings on international global clinical trials is Clinical Evaluation 30 Suppl. XIX (2003), 308pp. On global drug trials, NEJM 348 (2003), 28. Research limits are discussed in NatMed. 9 (2003), 630; CQHE 12 (2003), 192-5. A call for centralized review of clinical trials is Lancet 361 (2003), 1621. The limits of student examination and consent issues are discussed in BMJ 326 (2003), 1326-7. NigeriaNS who suffered in a Pfizer drug trial have taken their case o a US court, BMJ 326 (2003), 899.
Self-experimentation is discussed in MJA 178 (2003), 52-3. On reducing medical errors, NEJM 348 (2003), 2263-4. Another call for UK to establish a no-fault medical compensation scheme is made in BMJ 326 (2003), 997-8. In general on law and medicine, NEJM 348 (2003), 1937-8; BMJ 326 (2003), 898; JAMA 289 (2003), 1546-56. In the UK the GMC is now smaller, BMJ 326 (2003), 1002. Papers discussing the Chevron v. Echazabal case are in AJPH 93 (2003), 536-48.
Scientific Ethics
A series of 14 papers on the role of scientific societies in promoting research integrity is in Science and Engineering Ethics 9 (2003), 139-290. Science, ethics and war are discussed in Science 300 (2003), 1234; Nature 423 (2003), 683. Discrimination of students applying to university based on their national politics is discussed in Nature 424 (2003), 7.
Editorial miscommunication is discussed in BMJ 326 (2003), 1224-5, 1262-4; Lancet 361 (2003), 1926-7. Possible charging of authors for publication to make journals be free for all is discussed in BMJ 326 (2003), 945-6. The length of peer review is discussed in Nature 424 (2003), 12-3. A call for papers for the Fifth International Congress on Peer Review is in JAMA 289 (2003), 1438. Citation number is a flawed way to measure quality, MJA 178 (2003), 280-1; Nature 423 (2003), 479. Duplicate publication is discussed in NEJM 348 (2003), 2254. Fraud and validity are discussed in Science 300 (2003), 1341. A fraud case is discussed in Nature 424 (2003), 6.
Euthanasia & Terminal Care
On end of life care in Turkey, CQHE 12 (2003), 279-84. Nursing and palliative care is discussed in Nursing Ethics 10 (2003), 377-87. A booklet on hospice care is Jennings, B. et al. "Access to Hospice care. Expanding boundaries, overcoming barriers", HCR 33 (March 2003), Special Supplement 60pp. A report from a UK House of Lords debate on assisted dying is BME 187 (2003), 7-10. An interpretation of Aquinas on euthanasia is National Catholic Bioethics Quarterly 3 (2003), 331-56. A Dutch survey suggests only a half of doctors report euthanasia, BMJ 326 (2003), 1164. Also on euthanasia, NEJM 348 (2003), 2162-4; JAMA 289 (2003), 2278-81.
A paper from Czech finds physiciaNS still hesitate to communicate to patients, BME 187 (2003), 13-5. Aging and health is discussed in JAMA 289 (2003), 1371-3.
Organ Transplants & Brain Death
A new book is Persson, M.O., Utilization and allocation of orgaNS for transplantation - medical and ethical aspects (Lund University Faculty of Medicine, 2003, Doctoral Presentation, 67pp.). On ethics of transplants, CQHE 12 (2003), 116-8; AJLM 29 (2003), 31-44.
A review of the Council of Europe working party paper on xenotransplantation (CDBI/CDSP-XENO (2003)) is BME 187 (2003), 16-9. A paper on heart-lung machines is SA (July 2003), 68-73. On hand transplants, BMJ 326 (2003), 1226-7.
Health Costs
On management mistakes in medicine, CQHE 12 (2003), 201-7.
Internet
A paper in Italian looking at the way the Internet is changing the role of the doctor is in Bioetica e Cultura 23 (2003), 11-34.
Prepared by Darryl
Macer
Go back to EJAIB
13 (July 2003)
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