Bioethics & Health News
January 25

January 26, 2006

U.S. Scientist Entangled in Stem Cell Scam

Five months ago, a smiling Dr. Gerald Schatten appeared before reporters alongside South Korean stem cell researcher Dr. Hwang Woo-suk to present a scientific feat – the first cloned dog.
(AP)

Dextrous Mini-Robots to Aid Ops

Scientists are developing a new generation of dextrous mini-robots for use in minimally invasive surgery.
(BBC)

Circulation of Money May Predict Pandemics

A popular U.S. Web site that tracks the geographical circulation of money could offer new insights into predicting the spread of infectious diseases like bird flu.
(MSNBC)

Patients Fare Better in Trauma Centers

A national study confirmed that trauma centers – hospitals specially equipped to deal with gunshot wounds, auto accidents and other serious injuries – save lives. Patients treated at trauma centers are more likely to survive the emergency and more likely to be alive a year later, too, the study found.
(AP)

Science Spots New Cause of Chronic Pain

In a finding that could alter pain treatment, British scientists have found that undamaged nerve fibers, not injured ones, cause ongoing spontaneous pain.
(HealthDay)

Blacks Are More Likely to Get Lung Cancer

Blacks who smoke up to a pack a day are far more likely than whites who smoke similar amounts to develop lung cancer, suggesting genes may help explain the racial differences long seen in the disease, researchers say.
(AP)