Effects of processing techniques on the forensic DNA analysis of human skeletal remains

Human remains processed by forensic anthropologists may potentially be used for genetic analysis. Therefore, the condition of the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in processed remains may become an issue for future analysis. Processing techniques employed by anthropologists are highly variable and scanning electron microscopy reveals significant alterations to the bone surface depending upon the technique used. Such damage to the bone indicates differences may exist in quality and quantity of DNA extracted. This study assessed how five processing procedures used by major forensic anthropology laboratories around the country affects the amounts of DNA extracted from human rib bones and the subsequent DNA analysis. The DNA was analyzed using the short tandem repeat (STR) locus CSF1PO and amelogenin. The findings indicate processing procedures used by forensic anthropologists do not adversely affect DNA analysis but prolonged exposure to heat during processing may decrease the yield of information from the DNA.     

Problems with the regulation of assisted reproductive technology: a clinician's perspective

The use of the Infertility Treatment Act 1995 (Vic) as a model for regulating reproductive technologies throughout Australia poses many problems. This article argues that the legislation in Victoria is overly restrictive. In particular, banning embryo research is hypocritical. Embryo research was required to develop the clinical procedures and should be used to test innovations. Other problems are restricted access; privacy infringement; an intrusive regulatory body; conflicts with other laws; and confusion because of poor drafting or lack of foresight. Uniform statutes are unnecessary. The interests of individuals and the community are better served by regulation through the Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee.     

美国法律中的不可抗力和政府干预

<正> 国家对民事合同履行的干预是美国法律中的一个老问题。作为历史惯例,合同法把这种干预归入不能履行(Impossibility of performance)或非法合同之列,其结果是受到干预影响的一方可被免除合同规定的义务。近来,国家干预问题则以新的面目出现于法庭,其中心问题已不再是传统的合同问题。本文的目的在于简略地回顾历史上存在的难题,然后展示那些伴随国家干预的不断增长而出现的新问题。