Abstract This paper examines the controversy surrounding therapeutic cloning in light of biomedical ethics. The author argues in favor of therapeutic cloning citing its medical benefits. The opposing viewpoint is also presented. The author concludes, however, that more people need to understand the nuances of cloning, so that it will become more acceptable in the future.
From the Paper "Cloning is basically the recreation of life in the form of the donor parent. In other words, when you clone a sheep, a pig, or a human, it is an identical twin of the donor. Cloning immediately frightens some people and excites others. It frightens people because it carries the implication that a scientist in a lab somewhere could create human life for his own purposes. That is frightening and ethically challenging. Many religious groups (and others) oppose cloning for the ethical reason that no one should be able to create life but God."
Tags:biomedical, ethics, therapeutic, cloning, stem, cell, research
Abstract This paper examines how the biomedical model is defined as a conceptual model of illness based exclusively upon biologic factors. When diagnosing and treating a person's medical illness or disorder in accordance with the biomedical model, psychological and social factors are unfortunately excluded from consideration. The paper then discusses, how in contrast to the biomedical model, the biopsychosocial model is more all-encompassing because it is based upon a holistic view of health and attaches priority to the psychosocial context of an illness when interpreting and diagnosing mental conditions.
From the Paper " These two models can be compared and contrasted in a number of ways, but one of the most illustrative ways is to demonstrate how each model would be applied to a case in which a patient is complaining of chest pain. In a biomedical model approach, the physician would focus on physical causes of disease, examine the patient's recent diet, pain history, family and history of heart disease, and look for empirical signs and symptoms of myocardial infarction. In addition, objective lab tests would be done and vital signs such as temperature, pulse, and blood pressure would be checked. Based upon these procedures and results, the physician would prescribe treatment based solely on biological etiology and pathogenesis."
Tags: holistic, psychological, social, mental, health
Abstract The paper argues that restraints on areas such as embryo research have produced a devastating impact on the expansion of the biomedical technologies involved with regenerative medicine. The paper considers the ethical issues involved and posits that while there must certainly be a level of restraint in dealing with the possible misuse of these new inventions, it must not be so restrictive as to limit any room for advancements in the field. The paper asserts that there must be some middle ground upon which both sides of the issue can agree that the wonders of this field are for the benefit of humanity and not its destruction.
From the Paper "The field of Biomedical Technology has been growing by leaps and over the past half-century. At the beginning of that time many research scientists and their funding corporations were starting to realize the amazing potential of this field for both for humanitarian and commercial use. The advances alone in the use of recombinant DNA techniques as well as that of cell fusion and other advances in were revealing tremendous potential regarding their impact on the health, life and the longevity of human beings. (Blackford, 2006, p. 526) Biomedical technology has become a tremendous boon to mankind creating completely new approaches in the treatment of diseases and the consequent extension of life expectancy than had never been imagined previously. In our lifetime we have certainly seen the immediate effect of this in fact; evident in such advances that have enabled paramedics and doctors to artificially maintain the body's critical functions in emergency situations that would have otherwise resulted in immediate death ("Death," 2007)."
This paper reviews many examples of advanced electronics, which are playing very critical roles in many areas including the biomedical and learning environments.
Abstract This paper explains that electronics technologies empower man to do things that were never imagined before such as completing advanced tasks faster and easier such as the automated teller machines (ATMs). The author points out that advances in the discipline of biomedical engineering have made the impossible "possible" by working closely with doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers to develop a range of computing, instrumentation, imaging and telemedicine equipment. The paper relates that electronic forms of learning, calls "e-learning", have evolved in different methods, which makes use of assisted programs and software in which the speed of teaching can be adjusted to the learning ability and speed of the learner and to physical impairments.
Table of Contents
The Importance of Electronics in Today's Society and How Mankind Relies on the Current Technologies
Electronics Technology in the Development and Aid of Human Life and Longevity
Technical Achievements in the Area of Biomedics Technology in Electronics - Aiding Other Defects of Humanity
Conclusion
From the Paper "The truth that electronics aid humanity may be a subject for debate. However, it must be noted that nothing else may beat your doubt on electronics but the fact that we can derive from others' experiences that the technological advances in electronics really assist man in sustaining his life and surviving from the weaknesses of our physical body. More so, we may derive such information from our relatives and friends who may have experienced recovering from diseases with the aid of advanced biomedical machines, made possible by advanced electronics. Or, you can also ask this question to yourself to provide a view on how effective do you really believe can technology as applied in electronics will help, assist, and aid humanity?"
Abstract This paper offers a recommendation on a biomedical ethics' case concerning passive voluntary euthanasia where the patient's family and health care providers are divided on how to proceed.
From the paper:
"In Case # 6, the dilemma facing the health care provider is whether or not to continue life preserving measures while considering an advance directive (living will), family wishes and disagreement between the Health Care Team on the matter. The patient in this case is a 27-year old male who was left with multiple rib fractures, a pelvic fracture as well as basal skull fractures after a serious motor vehicle accident. The patient's wife and daughter died as a result. This patient also suffered a brainstem hemorrhage and mild cerebral edema. He is expected to recover from his fractures, though it is not likely he will recover from the head injury, which has left him with no voluntary movement other than vertical movements of his eyes."
Tags:biomedical, care, ethics, euthanasia, health, nursing, philosophy
This paper discusses the lack of consensus as to the etiology of anorexia and bulimia nervosa, eating disorders that almost exclusively affects middle and upper-class girls and young women in postindustrial cultures.
Abstract This paper defines and compares anorexia, an individual refusing to maintain a normal body weight, with underweight defined as 85% of normal weight for the person's age and height, and bulimia, episodes of binging and purging taking place a minimum of two times per week for three months or longer. The author points out that when first identified in the 1870s occurrences of anorexia were quite rare, but the number of cases has been accelerating rapidly since the 1970s. The paper reviews the biomedical, psychological, cultural and developmental models in search of a definitive etiology, but none of these explain totally the cause.
From the Paper "Changes in the hypothalamus' secretion of the hormone CRH, for example, have been shown to occur in depressed and anorexic individuals. This organ, which is responsible for the regulation of various homeostatic processes such as respiration, food and water intake, digestion, and metabolism, and this leads many to conclude that the misfiring of the hypothalamus is responsible for aberrant behaviors associated with digestion, food intake, and so on. But, research has only shown the covariance of the disorder and the secretory aberration. This means that the organic change could be the result of damage from anorexic starvation, or that psychic stress interferes with the organ's operations, (and it is known to be sensitive to "environmental stress" that has led to "pathologic changes in the organism". Or, it might be the case that anorexia nervosa, and its psychological expressions, are the result of a "primary hypothalamic defect of unknown etiology."
Tags:biomedical, culture, developmental, homone, fear
Abstract There are a number of ethical questions regarding the use of animals for biomedical research and particularly the use of the primates who are closest to humans genetically and who have been shown to have capacity for language and reason. Even if it is determined that humans have the right to use animals to further their own purposes then the question arises as to when and for what reason is the suffering or death of an animal justified. Also there is great debate on the validity of research that rests on the premise that primates such as chimps are close enough to humans to give accurate information. As new methods such as computer modeling and cell and tissue cultures are developed, they are showing higher levels of accuracy for some tests.
Abstract The present health care system is in urgent need of radical overhaul. This paper presents a model health care system that offers an alternative to a white male dominated biomedical model, which maintains and reinforces social inequality and social injustice. This model is comprehensive and inclusive. It is a model that evolved from one main question about what determines the health of individuals and communities in Canada.
From the Paper "As government officials and many members of the public are aware, I am an activist and advocate for Native rights. Through my collaboration with First Nations on unresolved land claims and health issues, I am firmly convinced that Native health and the health of other minority groups will not improve until the underlying conditions for these groups are changed."
Abstract This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of animal rights. Specifically, it investigates what Immanuel Kant believed about the treatment of animals and animal rights. It discusses how Kant might have felt about the use of animals for biomedical research. It also provides criticisms of Kant's views on animals' feelings and rights.
From the Paper "Kant would probably agree with animal testing, as it can aid the treatment of many human diseases, and the harm of a few animals for the good of rational human beings makes perfect sense. However, if animals can indeed feel pain and can suffer, then animal testing is often cruel and abusive. Kant might agree morally with using animals to save human lives, but a visit to a testing laboratory might change his view. Many of the cruelties these labs use in the name of science are difficult to view. Cohen believes that using animals in all testing does not make sense, but it does make sense in areas where there is the most risk to humans in testing. However, another animal rights expert disagrees. He writes, "Rights thought dictates that we cannot kill one rights-holder to save another - or even more than one other - whether or not the life of the former is 'different' from that of the latter" (Zak 281). This certainly is far from Kant's views on animals and their value to society. Kant feels they have little value other than intrinsic and humanistic value, and so, there is nothing ethically wrong with using them to benefit and enhance human life."
Abstract This paper discusses computer aided technologies in product design and manufacturing and focuses on their application in the biomedical field. The paper deals with the rapid prototyping technique's effects on the production of drugs, organ transplants, the creation of artificial body tissues and radiography techniques. The paper highlights how these computer aided technologies simplify complex manufacturing processes.
From the Paper "According to Avallone, Baumeister, Sadegh and Simeon Marks (1) rapid prototyping is a kind of modern technology that involves making of virtual objects over the computers and then using the ideas to make a real object. Since the technology began around the 1980s it has been used to produce a number of products in various fields of manufacturing either in large scale or in small scale (Kusiak, p1-4). This includes the production in foods, mechanical equipments, learning materials, agricultural materials, art objects and medical products among others."
Abstract In recent years there has been increasing concern in the literature regarding the protection of the rights and welfare of human subjects in biomedical, behavioral, and social science research. The initial concern seems to have developed with reference to biomedical research, perhaps because potential damage to the subjects is more clear-cut. The issue was raised after World War II at the Nuremburg trials because of Nazi experimentation on human subjects.
From the Paper "INTRODUCTION
In recent years there has been increasing concern in the literature regarding the protection of the rights and welfare of human subjects in biomedical, behavioral, and social science research. The initial concern seems to have developed with reference to biomedical research, perhaps because potential damage to the subjects is more clear-cut. The issue was raised after World War II at the Nuremburg trials because of Nazi experimentation on human subjects. The Hippocratic Oath requires first that physicians do no harm, but there is ample evidence that medical doctors have carried out risky and at times fatal research on human subjects without their consent or even their awareness in settings more normal than the Nazi concentration camps (Katz 281-291). It was outrage at the Nazi experiments ..."
Abstract Many different approaches have been developed to attempt to correct inappropriate behaviors in autistic children. These methods can include treatment approaches like behavioral modification and communication approaches, biomedical and dietary approaches, and complimentary approaches. This paper provides an overview of some of these interventions, focusing specifically on interventions used for the inappropriate behavior of removing clothes.
Paper Outline
Autism
Overview of Treatment and Educational Approaches
Communication and Behavioral Approaches
Complimentary, Biomedical, and Dietary Treatments
Conclusion
From the Paper "Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS) training focuses on getting autistic children to communicate, and also acts as a way for non-talking autistic children to communicate. Pictures of objects take the place of specific words, as a child exchanges a picture for something that they want. The technique is easy to understand by the child, and initiated for the child (Autism Society of America). Further, given that most children with special needs, including autistic children, are visual-spatial learners (rather than auditory learners) PECS training may allow these children to learn in the way that is the most comfortable to them (Hodgdon)."
Abstract This paper examines the animal rights movement as presented in literature published by animal rights activists. It first presents the negative attitudes within the animal rights movement towards science and scientists. Next, it examines the animal rights movement's position in society in order to show how this movement is infiltrating the current paradigm of both scientific and lay society. The paper then examines each of the three areas of animal experimentation (biomedical research, product testing, and education). Surveying each of these three, the paper presents the argument posed by the animal rights activists against the use of animals and then presents examples of scientific and technological alternatives currently in use.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
Negative Attitudes Towards Science and Scientists
Animal Rights in Society
Biomedical Research
Product Testing
Education
Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper "Pressures to accelerate legislation concerning the use of animals in scientific experimentation have resulted in legislative mandates under discussion in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. Bills introduced in both 1988 and 1989 (known as the Consumer Products Safety Testing Act) would require Federal agencies to promulgate regulations specifying that non-animal tests be used whenever possible. When specific non-animal alternatives are found to be less valid, agencies would be required to publish explanations and justifications of continued animal use."
From the Paper "Why is human cloning viewed as a bad (unethical) thing?? The only thing that is holding the possibilities back is the fact that some people, actually a lot of people, do not approve of cloning in the least bit. It is stated that "one (a clone) will lose the sense of human possibility in freely creating one's own future" (28), constantly haunted by their earlier twin. Also argued by the Nation Bioethics Advisory Committee is the fact that cloned children have a high chance of low self esteem, wondering their value because they were cloned instead of conceived. On page 21 in the book, it states some of main benefits. The biggest benefit is the fact that people can be cloned, and the embryos can be frozen and gestated for organ harvesting. This would be a huge advance in science, as many people in need of organ transplants will not get them and will die. With organ harvesting, there could be an unlimited supply of "spare parts" to increase the length of life. There is a possible legislation of using cloning as the first step to cure Parkinson's disease.
Abstract This paper analyzes Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" in regards to the idea of creation of life outside of the womb. It discusses the moral and even physical risks involved.
From the paper:
?Marry Shelley used her book Frankenstein as a way to discuss the social and moral implications of creating life outside of the womb as well as showing the progression from free choice to loss of control.?
