Tissues not for sale
Article Abstract:
In 1984, John Moore sued his doctor, a research technician, the University of California at Los Angeles, Sandoz Pharmaceuticals and Genetics Institute for profits from a cell line that was established from his spleen, which was removed when he was being treated for hairy cell leukemia. In 1988, a California court ruled that patients own any tissues and bodily fluids that are removed from them. This decision was overturned in the Californian Supreme Court the week of July 12, 1990. If the decision had been upheld, a patient would be able to sue researchers, institutes, or companies for any profits made using the patient's tissues. This would include the use of human cell lines, cells that are established so that they can grow continuously in tissue culture. The court's decision was based on the legal tradition that a person cannot sell his or her body parts. However, an individual can be reimbursed for the service of giving replaceable tissues, such as blood and semen. The court stated that doctors must disclose to their patient any interests other than the patient's health. This decision will not end legal action in the case of Moore, as he is now suing because he did not grant informed consent regarding the possible commercial use of his cells. The case is expected to go to trial in two years. Doctors will have to fully inform their patients of any relevant research and economic interests in the future. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1990
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De Niro on De Niro
Article Abstract:
Painter Robert De Niro, Sr. died in 1993. His namesake, actor Robert De Niro, Jr. talks about his relationship with his father, who was known as an oil painter. Their relationship was close in many ways, but strained in others, as De Niro's parents separated when the actor was two years old.
Publication Name: Vogue
Subject: Fashion and beauty
ISSN: 0042-8000
Year: 1995
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A VCR for $50
Article Abstract:
A writer recounts how he once turned down a man trying to sell a VCR in a parking lot for only $50. He later saw a man in a new Corvette buying the VCR, apparently unmindful that he would most probably be helping perpetuate a vicious circle of crime and drug use.
Publication Name: Reader's Digest (Canadian)
Subject: General interest
ISSN: 0034-0413
Year: 1996
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