Human ‘blastoids’ offer medical hope but also deep ethical challenges
Blastoids, derived from stem cells, mimic early embryonic development but may not develop into a fetus. Ethical considerations surround their use and regulation in research.
Research Ethics
Articles tagged with Research Ethics
Public support needed to tackle racial and other biases in AI for healthcare
A public consultation is launched to develop best-practice standards for diverse and inclusive healthcare datasets used in Artificial Intelligence. The project aims to reduce biases that affect patients from minoritised racial/ethnic groups, ensuring they receive accurate predictions and treatments.
Selected abstracts and late-breaking science to be presented at Otolaryngology’s Annual Meeting
The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) has selected top research presentations for its 2022 Annual Meeting & OTO Experience. These include groundbreaking studies in otology, laryngology, endocrine surgery, and head and neck surgery.
PLOS Global Public Health editors call for embedding Indigenous self-determination, with respect to researchers, knowledge, ethics, and processes, into all stages of research, to decolonize global health
The article emphasizes the need to incorporate Indigenous self-determination into research, respecting knowledge, ethics, and processes. This move aims to address historical injustices and promote more equitable health research practices.
Global digital health leaders propose framework to enhance research using real-world data
The proposed CODE-EHR best practice framework aims to standardize the use of structured electronic healthcare records in clinical research. The framework focuses on identifying and addressing data quality issues, ensuring interoperability between systems, and promoting transparency and trust.
New in Ethics & Human Research, July-August 2022
The article discusses new guidelines for big data research, including the potential for group harm. It also explores biobank research from an African American community's perspective and the implementation of electronic consent procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 may have increased UK doctors’ willingness to not resuscitate the very sick/frail
A survey of UK doctors found that the pandemic has led to an increase in willingness to forgo life-saving treatments for very sick patients, while views on euthanasia and assisted dying have remained unchanged. The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed end-of-life care, prompting a reevaluation of clinicians' decision-making processes.
The beginning of life: The early embryo is in the driver's seat
Researchers using 'blastoids' - in vitro models of the blastocyst - discovered that early embryonic signals induce placental development and prepare the uterus. The findings may contribute to a better understanding of human fertility and potentially improve IVF procedures, fertility drugs, and contraceptives.
To make genetic tests clinically useful for non-European groups, we need targeted recruitment, researchers argue
Researchers emphasize the need for targeted recruitment to make genetic tests clinically useful for non-European groups. By addressing cultural concerns and underrepresentation, efforts can reduce the incidence of variants of uncertain significance (VUS) in genetic databases.
A new framework for web scraping data to ensure its validity for use in marketing studies
Researchers developed a methodological framework to ensure web data validity in marketing studies. The study provides recommendations for addressing challenges in collecting and using web data via web scraping and APIs.
Guidelines will ensure assessment of patient symptoms and quality of life is ethical
The University of Birmingham has published new ethical guidelines for the collection of patient-reported outcomes in clinical research. The guidelines aim to reduce risk and burden for participants while increasing participation in research and protecting their welfare.
Nature helps mental health, research says—but only for rich, white people?
A new study analyzing 174 peer-reviewed studies on the effects of nature on human well-being found that participants were overwhelmingly white and from high-income countries. The research highlights a diversity problem in the field, which threatens its ability to make universal scientific claims.
Lessons from the Tuskegee experiment, 50 years after unethical study uncovered
The Tuskegee experiment's 50th anniversary highlights the importance of conscience in researchers and the dangers of unethical study methods. Dr. Martin Tobin emphasizes that research regulations cannot substitute for a researcher's moral compass.
New report calls on bioethics to take a stand against anti-black racism
A new Hastings Center special report calls on bioethics to take a lead in addressing racial injustice and health inequities in the US. The report highlights structural racism and anti-Black racism in healthcare settings and proposes transformations in bioethics scholarship, education, and research.
Surgeon and anesthesiologist satisfaction found to be an unreliable indicator of patient satisfaction during ocular surgery
Researchers found a weak correlation between provider and patient satisfaction with anesthesia during ocular surgery, suggesting that providers are poor predictors of patient comfort. The study recommends further research to understand patient satisfaction with anesthesia.
Can University of Oklahoma research team clear up biases in artificial intelligence?
A University of Oklahoma research team is exploring ethical AI methods specifically in environmental sciences. They aim to develop trustworthy AI tools to help mitigate weather and climate disasters. The team's work seeks to address biased AI algorithms that favor areas with higher populations.
Ethical communication in the age of information
Researchers from Osaka University proposed a comprehensive ethical framework and practical guidance for communicating with research participants through the Internet. The framework addresses issues such as participant recruitment, informed consent, and data protection, aiming to improve future practice in medical research.
Stopping “them” from spying on you
Researchers at Columbia University have developed an algorithm that generates whisper-quiet sounds to block smart devices from spying on users. The system works by predicting the characteristics of spoken language and generating a signal that can disrupt automatic speech recognition models.
The ethics of research on conscious artificial brains
A team of researchers from Kobe and Kyoto universities proposes an ethical framework for conducting research on conscious brain organoids. The framework assumes that brain organoids already possess consciousness and recommends guidelines similar to those for animal experiments. Key considerations include minimizing the number of organo...
Researchers outline need for new approach to COVID-19 vaccine testing
Researchers at Rutgers University propose a new approach to COVID-19 vaccine testing by combining conventional and challenge trials. This parallel approach, called Combining Conventional and Challenge trials (CCC), aims to facilitate faster and more accurate vaccine assessment and more effective pandemic response.
Clinical trials often fail to cite relevant past studies, researchers find
Researchers found that industry-sponsored clinical trials neglect to cite previous trials by up to 30%, while non-industry-funded trials do so at a rate of 20%. This omission may lead to redundant or less impactful research. The authors call for complete and impartial citation of prior studies in trial protocols.
Scientists call for the inclusion of Muslim perspectives in stem cell policy
The article highlights the need for a more diverse approach to stem cell policy, including consideration of Muslim contexts and perspectives. Researchers argue that this could lead to a more nuanced understanding of bioethics and potentially expand the use of embryonic stem cells in research.
Do octopuses, squid and crabs have emotions?
A York University expert argues that invertebrates can feel pain, have emotions, and deserve moral consideration. Research suggests that decapod crustaceans and cephalopod molluscs are sentient, challenging traditional views on animal welfare.
A call for community self-governance on digital sequence information sharing
A recent viewpoint article highlights the need for open access to digital sequence information (DSI) to facilitate real-time responses to global crises. The authors propose community self-governance as a solution to enable international collaboration, improve benefit-sharing mechanisms, and promote equitable sharing of DSI benefits.
The American Association for Anatomy (AAA) addresses structural racism, questionable ethics, and complex history of anatomical sciences
The American Association for Anatomy (AAA) has published a special issue of The Anatomical Record examining its complex history and addressing structural racism and questionable ethics. The issue proposes recommendations for creating an inclusive future for the field.
The impacts from using genetic testing to track down relatives
Researchers surveyed over 26,000 genetic genealogy participants about their experiences discovering previously unknown relatives. Most reported learning the identity of at least one relative, with some finding close family ties and others experiencing life-changing discoveries.
Chemotherapy’s effectiveness may vary with time of day, WVU research suggests
A new study by WVU researcher William Walker found that the blood-brain barrier is dynamic and more receptive to chemotherapy at night. This could lead to better treatment outcomes for patients with brain metastasis.
New framework accounts for how moral character promotes ethical decision making
A new framework, known as the Character Lens perspective, has been developed to account for patterns in individuals' understanding of and approach to ethical choices. This framework acknowledges the significant role of moral character in influencing how people perceive the world and make decisions.
Measuring trust in AI
A team of researchers from the University of Tokyo found that public trust in AI varies greatly depending on the application and demographic factors. They developed an octagonal visual metric to quantify these attitudes and hope it can lead to a universal scale for measuring ethical issues around AI.
Fossil research affected by significant colonial bias, study finds
A new study reveals significant bias in fossil data due to colonial influences, with high-income countries contributing 97% of research. Local researchers are often devalued, leading to unethical practices and mistrust.
Forensic researchers call for proactive efforts to address racism
The article highlights the importance of addressing systemic racism in forensic sciences by engaging with descendant communities and institutions. Forensic researchers advocate for repatriation and interment of remains collected without consent, emphasizing the need for uncomfortable conversations and criticism on issues related to race.
Report calls for broad public deliberation on releasing gene-edited species in the wild
A new report by The Hastings Center suggests that releasing gene-edited species into the wild demands deep public engagement. The report proposes a path forward for inclusive, values-based decision-making through public deliberation.
New research in JNCCN raises concerns about clinical trial bias from undisclosed censoring
A recent study published in JNCCN found that 33 out of 81 studies lacked transparency on censoring, which can introduce bias and affect trial results. The researchers emphasize the need for improved transparency and reporting in clinical trials to ensure patients and clinicians make informed decisions.
Breakthrough research on human embryo models paves the way for improving in vitro fertilization success rate and new non-hormonal, user-friendly contraception
Researchers have discovered molecules that could be candidates for contraceptives or fertility enhancers using human blastoid models. These models also show promise in improving the self-organization of stem cells during IVF procedures.
World first: Top experts formulate international ethical code for ancient DNA research
A team of international researchers has developed a globally-applicable ethical code for ancient human DNA research, aiming to address social and cultural implications. The code proposes cooperation with stakeholders, minimal damage to human remains, and respect for indigenous communities' perspectives.
Massive study reveals editorial bias and nepotism in biomedical journals
A recent study published in PLOS Biology found evidence of editorial bias and nepotism in some biomedical journals, where a few authors, often on the editorial board, dominate publications and receive preferential treatment.
URI researcher works for diversity, inclusion in sciences, one journal at a time
A URI researcher has published a series of articles in the journal Biological Invasions to address concerns about diversity, equity and inclusion. The study found that the editorial board was overwhelmingly American and white, with most papers published by Americans and Europeans.
The ethics of digital technology in the food sector – the future of data sharing
Researchers at Lancaster University examine the use of AI in the food sector, highlighting the need for trusted data collaboration to reduce waste and increase sustainability. They also warn about potential ethical issues and unexpected consequences of new technology.
Misinformation on stem cell treatments for COVID-19 linked to overhyped science, researchers argue
A recent study highlights the negative effects of misinformation on stem cell therapies for COVID-19, including exaggerated claims and unregulated sales. The researchers advocate for increased enforcement of laws and regulations to protect patients and promote responsible science communication.
Choosing the 'best' embryo in IVF
Researchers found that selecting the embryo with the lowest predicted risk score reduces disease risk more effectively than eliminating high-scoring embryos. However, polygenic embryo screening offers no guarantees about a baby's health and has limited effectiveness depending on factors like ancestry and age.
Notable oral abstracts and late-breaking science to be presented at Otolaryngology’s Annual Meeting
The American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery will present research on ear health, head and neck cancer, sleep-disordered breathing, and more at its annual meeting. Twelve 'Best of Orals' and 14 late-breaking scientific oral presentations will be showcased.
Utilitarian approach to global climate policy improves equity, environment and wellbeing
A new study proposes a practical way of measuring how different nations should reduce carbon emissions to maximize worldwide wellbeing. The utilitarian approach assigns different emission reduction goals to countries based on their wealth and ability to grow and maintain citizens' health.
World-leading pharma collaborates call for plain language summaries of peer-reviewed medical journal articles
Pharmaceutical companies in the Open Pharma collaboration recommend developing plain language summaries of peer-reviewed medical research articles. The summaries should be understandable, unbiased, non-promotional, and easily accessible. This move aims to make medical publishing more open and inclusive for all audiences.
Science is based on promises, not on mere rules
The removal of the 14-day rule from international guidelines on embryo research has sparked concerns among bioethicists about the lack of consideration for potential consequences. The authors argue that countries should not automatically amend their laws without thoughtful discussions involving stakeholders and citizens.
Peer-reviewed PETA paper exposes forced swim test flaws
A new PETA paper reviews data from over 15,000 animals subjected to the forced swim test, finding no correlation with human trials. The study suggests that the test is not a reliable method for identifying antidepressants.
Leading quantum computing experts explore tech's sustainability role in new documentary
The documentary highlights key sustainability topics, including reducing energy requirements for complex computations and minimizing quantum computing's own environmental impact. Industry leaders from global tech giants to start-ups assess the industry's potential to address global sustainability issues.
The ethics of split liver transplantation: Analyzing case studies to make the right decision
Researchers analyze case studies to develop a flexible decision support model for split liver transplantation, considering fairness and efficiency metrics. The study suggests oscillating between splitting and not splitting based on patient health and demographics.
Leonardo Da Vinci: New family tree spans 21 generations, 690 years, finds 14 living male descendants
A decade-long investigation reveals the continuous male line of the Da Vinci family, tracing 21 generations and five family branches. The study also provides new discoveries and family tree updates, deepening previous findings and offering a strong basis for advancing DNA research.
New in Ethics & Human Research, May-June 2021
A new study reveals that American Indian and Alaska Native individuals are underrepresented in clinical studies, with only 1% of participants from these groups. The authors call for further research to improve ethical inclusion in clinical research.
Study finds links between Whites having Black neighbors and party affiliation
A Harvard study found that white men having a Black neighbor as children are more likely to be Democrats and less likely to be Republicans. The analysis linked historical data from the 1940 US Census with contemporary voter files, revealing correlations between early-life exposure and long-term political views.
Decolonising ecology? How to adopt practices that make science more equitable
Researchers propose five interventions to promote equitable ecology practices, including amplifying diverse expertise, addressing data sovereignty issues, and deconstructing biases in research teams. These actions aim to connect with existing anti-colonial and anti-racist struggles and promote ecological justice.
'Postcode lottery' of nutrient intake from crops revealed in new study
A global team has discovered that the nutritional quality of cereal grains varies substantially with location, posing a 'postcode lottery' to micronutrient deficiencies. The study found that some areas have much lower levels of essential nutrients like calcium and iron.
How AIs ask for personal information is important for gaining user trust
Researchers discovered that users respond differently to AI systems asking for personal info when offered help versus asking for help themselves. Help-seeking AIs gained more trust and increased intentions to share personal info. The study suggests designing AIs to increase user awareness of personal info importance.
Fertility apps with hundreds of millions of users collect and share excessive information
Researchers found that most top-rated fertility apps mismanage and misuse user data, compromising reproductive health and rights. The study calls for stricter categorization of these apps to protect women's intimate information from exploitation.
Researchers generate human-monkey chimeric embryos
Scientists have successfully generated human-monkey chimeric embryos, allowing them to study human development and disease under in vivo conditions. The research has the potential to provide new insights into evolutionary barriers to chimera generation and improve model systems for studying human biology.
African elephants' range is just 17% of what it could be, study finds
A recent study found that African elephants' actual range has shrunk to just 17% of its potential due to human pressures, including ivory killing. Despite this, the researchers suggest that elephants can still recover into areas with light human footprint for peaceful coexistence.
Study: Firms recruit dark personalities for earnings management
Companies may be intentionally hiring managers with questionable ethics and narcissistic tendencies to manage earnings. Researchers found that these 'dark' personality traits are often preferred over more ethical candidates, leading to inflated earnings reports.
Patient-researcher collaboration proves to be a win-win, Japanese study shows
A new study from Osaka University reveals that Japan is ready to embrace active patient involvement in research, following the US and UK trends. The Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases Study JAPAN uses online platforms and virtual tools to facilitate collaboration between patients and researchers.
Human instinct can be as useful as algorithms in detecting online 'deception'
A recent study published in Information & Management found that human analysis can effectively identify fake online reviews by leveraging linguistic characteristics. Researchers asked participants to distinguish between authentic and fake hotel reviews, with surprisingly effective outcomes.
Benefits of team building exercises jeopardised if not truly voluntary
A recent study published in the Journal of Social Networks found that team-building interventions can have mixed feelings among employees, with some regarding them as a waste of time. The researchers suggest that some degree of openness and vulnerability is necessary for effective connections with colleagues.