Articles tagged with Biosecurity
Scientists have engineered a highly transmissible H5N1 strain, sparking debate about its safety and appropriateness. Dr. Inglesby argues that the risks outweigh the benefits, while Dr. Pavia suggests that proper safeguards can mitigate concerns and promote critical scientific understanding.
A Georgetown University Medical Center professor applauds the decision to temporarily halt research on H5N1, emphasizing the importance of clear explanations and risk minimization. The moratorium will allow institutions to assess dual-use research oversight and ensure public health benefits outweigh potential harm.
Two Georgetown University professors argue that a fair, transparent process is preferable to governmental constraints on scientific information. They recommend strengthening precautions around high-risk research and suggest a balanced approach between scientific freedom and national security.
Kansas State University is receiving a $1 million grant from the US Department of Agriculture to study the wheat blast fungus, a pathogen that has become a serious threat in Brazil. The researchers will sequence the fungus's genome and screen Kansas wheat varieties for resistance to the disease.
Researchers are using UAVs to detect and monitor the spread of Phytophthora infestans, a fungus-like organism responsible for the Irish Potato Famine. The study aims to track the movement of the pathogen in the atmosphere to inform management decisions.
David R. Franz, Kansas State University's National Agricultural Biosecurity Center director, warned of the vulnerabilities and threats to the nation's livestock industry due to increased animal concentrations and international transportation. He emphasized the need for a different set of tools to protect against intentional disease int...
The new online learning tool illustrates the implications of dual-use biological research through case studies and historical background on bioterrorism. Biology students will learn to assess their research in terms of modern security concerns and recognize the risks of misusing scientific work.
The National Agricultural Biosecurity Center is developing content and software to help emergency management personnel respond effectively to agricultural or zoonotic bioterrorist events. The project aims to create an integrated system accessible via the Internet, providing veterinarians, county extension agents, and others with access...
A new handbook provides mayors, governors, and public health officials with research-based strategies for safeguarding the public's trust during a response. The guidebook presents common language and purpose for handling emergencies, limiting death and suffering through preventive care.
The Center for Biosecurity at UPMC analyzed US government civilian biodefense funding from 2001 to 2005, totaling $14.5 billion. The Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Homeland Security together account for over 90% of budgeted funds.
Recent advances in aerosol technology, microbiology, and genetics pose a risk of misuse by terrorists, warns Johns Hopkins researcher Gigi Kwik. The 'Persephone effect' highlights how life sciences can be used for both good and evil, and the need for strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of biological weapons.