Assisted Reproduction Techniques and Ethical Considerations
Assisted Reproduction Techniques
Causes of Infertility
A couple is considered sterile when they fail to conceive after twelve months of unprotected sex. Common causes include delayed childbearing age and declining sperm quality.
Artificial Insemination
This technique involves the medical introduction of treated sperm into the woman’s uterus. The protocol includes:
- Hormonal control and stimulation of ovulation.
- Sperm preparation.
- Insemination at the appropriate time in the cycle.
- Hormonal treatment to promote embryo development.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
IVF is a technique where sperm and egg unite in a laboratory setting. The resulting pre-embryos are then deposited into the patient’s uterus. The process involves ovarian stimulation, egg and sperm retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer. Disadvantages include multiple pregnancies and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy.
Embryo Donation
This technique is used when both partners are infertile. Pre-embryos with a different genetic load than the parents are introduced.
Cloning
Cloning involves creating genetically identical copies. Cell cloning occurs through mitosis and asexual reproduction, while organism cloning involves nuclear transfer. The first successful cloning was Dolly the sheep, created by Wilmut.
Stem Cells
Stem cells have the ability to multiply and differentiate into specialized cells. There are two main types: embryonic stem cells and adult somatic stem cells.
Ethical Considerations
Bioethics
Bioethics is a discipline based on values and moral principles that analyzes human behavior in the field of life sciences.
Business Ethics
Four key principles guide business ethics:
- **Non-maleficence:** Do no harm. Respect the physical and psychological integrity of human life.
- **Beneficence:** Make every effort to care for the patient and improve their health.
- **Autonomy:** Obtain informed consent from the patient before any action is taken on their body.
- **Justice:** Ensure fair distribution of existing resources. This principle limits autonomy when it violates the basic rights of others.
The principles of non-maleficence and justice are considered fundamental and must be upheld.
Technological Advancements Throughout History
Stone Age
The discovery of new materials, such as stones with sharp edges, revolutionized early societies. Technological advancements included the development of pottery and metalworking.
Bronze Age
The discovery of copper ore led to the creation of bronze, a more durable and versatile material than stone. Advantages of bronze included:
- Less fragile than stone.
- Larger size.
- Ability to take many different forms.
Adding tin to copper further improved its properties, lowering its melting point and increasing its toughness.
Iron Age
The discovery of iron led to even stronger and more durable tools and weapons, further advancing societies.
Waste Management
Medical Waste
Medical waste includes any material generated in healthcare institutions, from cardboard to hazardous materials. Proper management involves classification, transportation, and storage according to specific guidelines.
Agricultural Waste
Agricultural waste comes from farming activities. Management strategies include minimizing waste production, utilizing waste as a resource (e.g., fertilizer), and renewable energy generation.
Industrial Waste
Industrial waste includes materials discarded from industrial processes. It can be classified as either specific or non-specific, with the latter being treated similarly to municipal solid waste.
Radioactive Waste
Radioactive waste contains radioactive isotopes and requires special handling and disposal methods, such as surface or underground storage.
Urban Solid Waste
Urban solid waste is collected by municipal services. Management strategies focus on improving resource efficiency, reducing waste generation, and promoting recycling.
Recycling
Plastic Recycling
Plastic recycling involves sorting, crushing, washing, separating, and extruding plastic materials. Chemical recycling breaks down plastic molecules.
Glass Recycling
Glass recycling saves energy and resources. Returnable and non-returnable glass are processed separately.
Paper Recycling
Paper recycling involves collection, sorting, baling, storage, and transportation of paper and cardboard.
Steel and Aluminum Recycling
Steel and aluminum recycling involves collection, sorting, shredding, melting, and casting into ingots. The ingots are then rolled into thin sheets for reuse.