IRB Advisor – December 1, 2009
December 1, 2009
View Issues
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Innocent blood: Use of newborn heel sticks spurs legal challenges
It's likely one of the first medical procedures most newborn babies undergo a simple heel stick, as blood samples are taken to screen for a variety of disorders that might not otherwise be apparent at birth. -
Parents OK baby sample research, with permission
More than 75% of parents surveyed in a nationwide study would be willing to allow their children's newborn screening samples to be used for future research if researchers first asked their permission. -
Panel looks at national plan for newborn samples
In an effort to address the wide variance in state laws and policies regarding the research use of newborn screening blood spots, a federal advisory committee is considering a proposal for a national policy. -
Should IRB role include risk-benefit analysis?
As bioethicists and other experts in human subjects research protection take a closer look at the IRB's role, two interesting questions emerge: First, how can IRBs improve their risk-benefit analyses of trials, and, secondly, should IRBs even be in the business of making risk-benefit determinations? -
Time for major changes in meeting mandates
Human subjects research has evolved and grown dramatically in recent decades, fueled by advances in medical technology, research globalization, and financial and professional incentives, a researcher and health science expert says. -
Mentally ill bring new issues to brain research
The use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and other neurological disorders has been the subject of many research studies and has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration since 1997. -
Aging strategies call for 'reformed consent'
Written informed consent will exist in human subjects research for as long as regulations require it, but this doesn't mean IRBs and investigators are stuck within its limitations.