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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.

SourceKyoto University·JournalEMBO Reports·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 6, 2021

To advance human rights, consult neuroscience

Researchers at Brown University introduce 'dignity neuroscience,' arguing that universal rights are rooted in human brain science. The concept posits five core elements - agency, autonomy, and self-determination; freedom from want and fear; uniqueness; and unconditionality - which reflect fundamental features of the human brain.

SourceBrown University·JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 5, 2021

Young Investigator Award

Stephanie Law, associate professor of materials science and engineering, received the Young Investigator Award for advances in growing novel optical materials, including heavily doped semiconductors and topological insulators. The award recognizes her work on improving material quality for infrared and terahertz optics and plasmonics.

Most countries are violating international law during the COVID-19 pandemic: Legal experts

A new study by global health law scholars reveals that most countries are not fulfilling their international legal obligations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers argue that the provisions of the International Health Regulations (IHR) are often misunderstood and may not be sufficient to guide governments' responses to pandemics.

SourceYork University·JournalInternational Organizations Law Review·DateDec 3, 2020

New in the Hastings Center Report, September-October 2019

The article discusses human-animal chimeras with brains composed of human cells, raising questions about their moral status. The author argues that a standard view, which considers human cognitive capacities morally significant, is mistaken and proposes a better framework for thinking about the moral status of part-human beings.

SourceThe Hastings Center·JournalHastings Center Report·DateOct 11, 2019

'Do no harm' vs. 'legitimate use of force'

A Canadian research team studied the ethics codes of the Canadian Medical Association and the Department of National Defence. They found that dual loyalty between medical and military professions can coexist with the principle of 'do no harm'. The researchers interviewed over 50 military health professionals, who face complex challenge...

NEJM perspective: 'Patient CARE Act' Medicaid block grant likely unconstitutional

Two legal experts argue that the proposed Medicaid block grant in the Patient CARE Act would be unconstitutional as it violates the Tenth Amendment. The block grant's fixed sum allocation and limited growth rate would coerce states into accepting a reduced financing structure, similar to the 2012 NFIB v. Sebelius ruling.

Health law hasn't cut insurers' rate of overhead spending: Study

A study published in the International Journal of Health Services found that the Affordable Care Act's requirement to increase medical loss ratios had no significant impact on insurers' overhead spending. Insurers' financial filings show that the law did not lead to a greater share of premium dollars being channelled into actual patien...

SourcePhysicians for a National Health Program·JournalInternational Journal of Health Services·DateMar 12, 2015

Booming mobile health app market needs more FDA oversight for consumer safety, confidence

The mHealth app industry has tremendous potential to broaden access to medical treatment and control costs, but lacks sufficient regulation by the FDA. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine notes that only about 100 out of 100,000 apps have been cleared by the FDA, while opponents see this as a deterrent to innovation.

SourceSouthern Methodist University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 28, 2014

New anti-homosexuality laws threaten health as well as liberties

The article highlights the dangers of new anti-homosexuality laws that restrict freedoms, healthcare access, and create a climate of fear. These laws can lead to increased rates of HIV transmission, torture, and murder of LGBTQ+ activists, underscoring the need for continued research and support.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 24, 2014

Technology 1 step ahead of war laws

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists explores the impact of emerging military technologies on the laws of war, highlighting the need for new legal thinking and institutions to address asymmetric warfare. The article argues that current international law is no longer sufficient to handle the complexity of modern warfare.

SourceSAGE·JournalBulletin of the Atomic Scientists·DateJan 6, 2014

From 'law' to 'religion'

A joint study by Stefan Reichmuth and Reinhold Glei reveals the Koran's term 'dīn' changed meaning from 'law' to 'religion' in Latin translations, with implications for European understanding of Islam. This shift reflects a gradual development in Western philosophy, paralleling Judaism and Christianity.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalReligion·DateJul 4, 2012