Sick kids find help in a cyberspace world

Article Abstract:

Steven Spielberg and several computer and telecommunications giants are betting that an interactive network called Starbright World will help sick children recover more quickly. The network allows children in hospitals all across the country to play games with each other and communicate about their shared diseases. Spielberg heads the foundation that created the network and companies such as Intel, Sprint and UB Networks donated much of the equipment. The clinical effectiveness of such an approach will be tested by the participating hospitals, which include Children's Hospital of Boston, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, PA, Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York and the Lucile Salter Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford University. One study at the University of Southern California Medical Center found that an earlier version of Starbright World reduced children's need for pain medication.

Innovations, Telecommunications systems, Chronically ill children, Interactive computer systems, Interactive media, Critically ill children

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Researchers find evidence of a new gene for late-onset Alzheimer disease

Article Abstract:

A gene on chromosome 12 may predispose elderly people to Alzheimer's disease. The link between late-onset Alzheimer's disease and this chromosome was discovered when a large study found people with Alzheimer's disease who had none of the 4 known gene mutations. They include the apolipoprotein E gene on chromosome 19, the amyloid precursor protein gene on chromosome 21 and the presenilin 1 and 2 genes on chromosomes 14 and 1, respectively. Many of these genes are associated with early-onset dementia, but over 90% of people develop Alzheimer's after the age of 70.

Gene mutations, Gene mutation, Genetic aspects, Alzheimer's disease, Identification and classification

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Ethics group drafts guidelines for control of genetic material and information

Article Abstract:

The Ethical, Legal, and Social Issue Committee of the Human Genome Organization (HUGO) has drafted guidelines on the use of genetic material and information. The draft recommendations recognize that genetic information applies to both individuals and their families, and that this may cause conflicts. The group also believes that tissue samples may be used for genetic and other research if the patient consents or if the sample is rendered anonymous to protect the identity of the patient. The committee intends to study the issue of ownership of research samples.

Reports, Ethical aspects, Genetic research, Human Genome Organization

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