27 articles from SATURDAY 4.3.2023

UK government urged to consider changing law to allow gene editing of embryos

Citizens’ panel of people with experience of genetic conditions says discussion urgently needed for research Ministers must consider changing the law to allow scientists to carry out genome editing of human embryos for serious genetic conditions – as a matter of urgency. That is the key message of a newly published report by a UK citizens’ jury made up of individuals affected by genetic...

UK health officials spent £42m in a year on ‘golden goodbyes’ and staff payoffs

In the last five years, 324 health sector staff have received payouts of more than £150,000, according to new figuresNHS trusts and other organisations overseen by the Department of Health and Social Care agreed staff payoffs worth £42m in 2021/22, including 36 “golden goodbyes” worth more than £150,000 each.In the last five years, 324 staff in the health and care sector got payoffs of more...

‘Startling’ new evidence reveals gladiators fought in Roman Britain

Latest analysis of vase found in Colchester in 1848 shows the vessel was a piece of sports memorabilia from an area of combatGladiator fights backed by roaring crowds in impressive-looking arenas have long inspired film-makers behind classics such as Gladiator and Spartacus. Now new research reveals for the first time that such a sporting spectacle took place in Britain in the late second century...

Prof Nita Farahany: ‘We need a new human right to cognitive liberty’

The author of The Battle for Your Brain has serious reservations about neurotechnology, from the surveillance of mental experiences to ‘brainjacking’Our brainwave activity can be monitored and modified by neurotechnology. Devices with electrodes placed on the head can record neural signals from the brain and apply low electric current to modulate them. These “wearables” are finding...

Researchers identify gene mutation capable of regulating pain

Pain afflicts at least 1.5 billion people worldwide, and despite the availability of various painkilling drugs, not all forms of pain are treatable. Moreover, pain medications can have side-effects such as dependence and tolerance, especially in the case of morphine and other opioids.

End ‘colonial’ approach to space exploration, scientists urge

Focus should shift away from seeking to exploit discoveries on other planets, researchers sayHumans boldly going into space should echo the guiding principle of Captain Kirk’s Star Trek crew by resisting the urge to interfere, researchers have said, stressing a need to end a colonial approach to exploration.Nasa has made no secret of its desire to mine the moon for metals, with China also keen...