Thought Leadership - NYAS

A closeup of a mosquito sucking blood from a human.

Mosquitos and ticks thrive during the summer months, which is when they also present their greatest threat to public health. Dr. Syra Madad, Chief Biopreparedness Officer with NYC Health + Hospitals, offers advice on how to protect yourself, your family, and your pets from these disease-carrying insects.

Published August 8, 2024

By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP

The mosquito (*Culex pipiens*) drinks blood on human skin. Image courtesy of ihorhvozdetskiy – stock.adobe.com.

The rise in mosquito-borne and tick-borne illnesses is a pressing public health concern. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in these illnesses globally, including in the United States. Both mosquito and tick-borne diseases thrive in the summer months due to warmer temperatures and increased humidity, which create ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes and enhanced tick activity.

The increase in diseases such as dengue, West Nile virus, and Lyme disease underscores the urgent need for effective prevention and public awareness. By adopting the ABCDE approach and taking practical preventive measures, we can combat the spread of these diseases and protect our health.

The Growing Burden of Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection that has reached unprecedented levels in the Americas, with over 9.7 million cases reported in the first half of 2024 alone, a significant rise from previous years. Symptoms of dengue include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding. The CDC has issued a health advisory highlighting the increased risk of dengue in the United States, particularly in Puerto Rico and among travelers returning from endemic areas. Majority of dengue virus cases are asymptomatic, with about one in four people infected with dengue getting sick.

West Nile virus, another mosquito-borne disease, has also been detected early and extensively. For example, in New York City, there were 325 positive mosquito pools reported as of mid-2024. There’s been 103 human diseases cases including 68 neuroinvasive disease cases of West Nile virus across 26 states in 2024 so far. An estimated 70-80% of human West Nile virus infections are subclinical or asymptomatic.

Symptoms of West Nile virus infection can range from mild, flu-like symptoms to severe neurological illness. Less than 1% of infected individuals develop West Nile Neuroinvasive Disease (WNND), which typically presents as meningitis, encephalitis, or acute flaccid paralysis. People over 60 years of age, or those with certain medical conditions or undergoing treatments that cause immunosuppression—such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer, or organ transplantation—are at greater risk of developing WNND.

A blacklegged/deer tick (*Ixodes scapularis*).
Image by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention via Fairfax County/Flickr. Licensed via CC BY-ND 2.0. No changes were made to the original work.

Tick-Borne Diseases on the Rise

Ticks are responsible for transmitting various diseases, with Lyme disease being the most prevalent in the United States. The blacklegged tick, which carries Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis, has expanded its range due to climate change, leading to increased cases even in urban areas like Staten Island and the Bronx. Symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the joints, heart, and nervous system. The warming climate has extended the tick season, allowing these vectors to remain active for longer periods and spread more widely.

ABCDE Approach to Mosquito and Tick-borne Disease Prevention:

To protect yourself against mosquito and tick-borne diseases, utilize the ABCDE approach:

Ticks are often found in tall grasses. Image courtesy of Yuriy T – stock.adobe.com.

Avoid: Avoid areas with high mosquito and tick activity, especially during peak seasons. This includes wooded, brushy, and grassy areas where ticks are common, and areas with stagnant water where mosquitoes breed. Mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus usually bite around dusk and dawn.

Block: Use Environmental Protection Agency-approved insect repellents on exposed skin and clothing. DEET, picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus are effective options.

Control: Use air conditioning and window screens to prevent mosquito entry. Regularly empty containers that collect water to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

Dress: When outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks.

Examine: After spending time outdoors, perform thorough tick checks on yourself, children, and pets. Promptly remove any attached ticks with fine-tipped tweezers.

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Scientists Can Help Prepare for Record Heatwaves

With average global temperatures rising, here’s some expert guidance so you can keep yourself, and those around you, safe during extreme heat waves.

Published August 5, 2024

By ISR Staff

Last year, the world shattered a record we never should have hit: our warmest year ever. In response, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres remarked that we are in an “era of global boiling,” as he called for swift action on human-induced climate change. So far in 2024, global temperatures have continued to break monthly records as prolonged heatwaves are impacting millions of people worldwide, from India to Mexico.

Researchers from the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) also found that for the average person on Earth, there would be 26 additional days of extreme heat this year, compared to if climate change was not happening. In certain regions of the world, that number reaches as high as an extra 120 days.

Urban residents, who represent more than 55% of the world’s population, are particularly at risk from these warmer temperatures due to urban heat islands (UHIs), which occur when a city’s infrastructure, like roads, parking lots, and rooftops, absorb and remit heat more than natural landscapes like forests. In effect, UHI makes urban environments hotter than rural locations.

The greenhouse gas emissions that humans have already emitted into the atmosphere means that extreme heat is not going away anytime soon, even if we rapidly reach climate targets and zero emissions. That’s why, as a network of scientists and experts concerned about crisis, we can be thinking of new ways to collaborate to inform, prepare, and reduce harm to humans and ecological systems during extreme heat waves.

The Limits of Heat on the Human Body

Climate change is already affecting human health. There are risks to human bodies from extreme heat, particularly for residents in cities, and within communities that are more vulnerable to its adverse impacts. Extreme heat is more dangerous for children, older adults, and outdoor workers – particularly those who do not have labor protections to keep them safe.

Of particular concern to human health is when heat and humidity remain high in combination, especially at night. It becomes difficult for the body to rest, relax, and stabilize – and that can put the body under significant stress.

More and more experts are calling for decisionmakers to gauge upcoming risks to the public by using a wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) reading versus temperature alone. WBGT is measured through temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle, and cloud cover. Tropical and coastline cities, for example, are already reaching critical “wet bulb” temperatures, where the human body cannot cool down through its normal sweating process because sweat is not able to evaporate in high humidity. Dry heat is cooler for the body, for this reason.

Experts define 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) as the upper limit of WGBT for young and healthy people. During India’s recent heatwave, the WGBT reached at least 100 degrees (37.8 degrees Celsius), making the chances of heat exhaustion, stroke, and even death much higher for vulnerable populations.

Cities in China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, the Arabian Peninsula, and the African Sahel are among the highest risk zones for dangerous levels of WGBT. Jacobabad, Pakistan is often called one of the hottest cities on earth and has experienced at least four extreme wet bulb events in recent years. Many cities lack the infrastructure or resources to deal with extreme heat, in some cases because in the past they did not need it.

Understanding the Toll of Extreme Heat

Unlike hurricanes, earthquakes, or tornadoes, heat disasters often go unseen by decisionmakers because the public health impacts often happen inside homes or go undiagnosed by health professionals as heat related.

In the US, the National Weather Service (NWS) cites that heat has been the deadliest form of extreme weather over the last decade. But many researchers believe current counts of heat illnesses death are vastly underestimated. In sub-Saharan Africa, for example, there is little to no accurate tracking of heat deaths. In 2022, a groundbreaking study found that approximately 70,000 people died in Europe due to the summer’s extreme heat. Europe is considered the fastest warming inhabited continent, and many countries lack common cooling mechanisms, such as air conditioning, in older buildings.

Additionally, the burden of heat is not often shared equally. In India after recent heatwaves, schools closed, agricultural supply chains were disrupted, and workers lost significant income. According to a recent report by the UN, the rising temperatures in India will reduce daily working hours by at least 5.8 percent by 2030. Loss of economic opportunity also acutely impacts women and girls.

What Experts Can Do to Respond and Save Lives

Just like with a hurricane or earthquake, the world’s most vulnerable cities need stronger preparation and mitigation measures to prevent and reduce severe health impacts. First and foremost, the rapid phaseout of fossil fuels is the most critical step to take to reduce harm.

Second, if scientists and health experts begin to treat extreme heat like other disasters, the public will be equipped with more tools to take the proper steps to help prepare for it. Early warning systems remain as one of the most effective ways to keep people safe, and countries with “limited early warning systems” are experiencing heat-related deaths at a rate eight times higher than countries that have comprehensive warning services.

In the US, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and NWS recently created a new scale that helps the public gauge health risks associated with extreme heat. HeatRisk considers several factors, such as time of year and length of heatwave, and models where elevated risks exist to help leaders better communicate on a clear scale of 1-4.

Scientists and health experts can also help the public better understand what to do once a warning about elevated risk occurs, including educating them on action steps like:

Having a plan to acclimatize your body safely over time by gradually increasing activity outdoors,
Staying in cool environments,
Hydrating quickly and drinking electrolytes, when possible,
Removing restrictive layers and wearing light layers,
Taking a cold shower or bath when overheated,
Avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and
Reducing work in the sun.

Several major cities have also taken to hiring Chief Heat Officers who create Heat Action Plans, or roadmaps to help urban dwellers deal with heat. The World Economic Forum and Adrienne Arsht-Rockefeller Foundation Resilience Center (Arsht-Rock) also created the Heat Action Platform, a free online resource that provides cities with tools to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate their heat plans.

Energy supply is also critical to preparations. Given the pressure on the energy grid in many countries, there has been an increase in rolling or prolonged blackouts due to high demand during heatwaves. Air conditioning therefore cannot be seen as the only stable solution to cool down. In just one month in Mexico, for example, over 32 states including Mexico City experienced blackouts. The loss of power can lead to life-threatening situations for people with disabilities, health conditions, and older adults. In the mid- to long-term, in order to reduce harm in many countries, there needs to be major updates to the power grid that are powered by renewable energy and stabilized through weatherizing of buildings for energy efficiency and planting more trees for shade and cool roofs.

If you want to learn more about how to collaborate with other researchers on scientific issues related to heatwaves, please join the International Science Reserve and RSVP for our upcoming heat webinar at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)’s Science Summit this September.

Learn more about the ISR and about The New York Academy of Sciences.

HPAI A(H5N1) Transmission Among Cattle in the U.S.

While the risk to the public remains low, the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) is on the radar of those in sectors like livestock breeding, animal sciences and food production.

Published May 28, 2024

By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP; Jason Kindrachuk, PhD; and Rick A. Bright, PhD

Image courtesy of Nazzu via stock.adobe.com.

Recent observations on highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) have highlighted the virus’s transmission among dairy cattle in the United States. Key findings include ongoing detection and transmission of H5N1 among cattle, a second human case of H5N1 infection in a farmworker; mixed virus receptor distribution in mammary gland tissue of cattle, genetic evolution of H5N1 with onward transmission, evaluation of pasteurization effectiveness for virus inactivation, and a clinical description of HPAI H5N1 influenza A virus infection in a U.S. dairy farm worker.

Genomic and Epidemiologic Insights

In May 2024, investigators at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported genomic and epidemiologic data showing HPAI A(H5N1) spillover to, and transmission among, cattle. While prior data on Influenza A virus in cattle is scarce, the current geographic expansion of HPAI H5N1 among herds across multiple U.S. states demonstrates clade 2.3.4.4b’s affinity for cattle.

Reduced food intake, milk production, and shifting milk quality was first noted in January 2024, followed by detection of influenza A virus, specifically H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b genotype B3.13, by the National Animal Health Laboratory Network and National Veterinary Services Laboratories. Subsequent analysis suggested movement of genotype B3.13 between dairy cattle farms and domestic poultry.

The study’s authors suggested a single spillover event from wild birds with limited cattle-to-cattle transmission around December 2023. Additional spillovers were identified from infected cattle to poultry and other nearby mammals, with the virus potentially shedding from infected cattle for 14-21 days. Genome sequencing indicated ongoing evolution, possibly linked to mammalian adaptation.

Viral Receptor Distribution

Sialic acid receptors utilized by influenza A viruses for cellular attachment, are found in multiple cattle tissues, including the respiratory tract, mammary glands, and brain. Though all type of sialic acid receptors could be found in each of these areas, the types and concentration of sialic acid receptors varied by tissue; those used by human and duck viruses were more prominent in the mammary gland and to a lesser degree in the respiratory tract, while those used by chicken viruses were more prominent in the respiratory tract and to a lesser degree in the mammary glands.

These findings provide insights into HPAI A(H5N1)’s tissue tropism in cattle and its transmission patterns. The presence of multiple types of species-specific receptors for influenza A viruses located throughout the dairy cattle also permits hypotheses on potential for them to serve as a mixing vessel for accelerated reassortment of influenza viruses, increasing a potential for the evolution of an influenza A virus with human pandemic potential.

Pasteurization and Food Safety

On May 1, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration confirmed that pasteurization inactivates H5N1 virus in a variety of milk products. No infectious H5N1 virus was found in nearly 300 retail dairy samples that were positive for viral nucleic acid by quantitative PCR. Additionally, neither viral nucleic acid nor infectious virus was found in retail powdered infant formula and powdered milk. This supports pasteurization’s effectiveness in inactivating concentrations of H5N1 virus found in the milk supply among samples collected in April. Advisories against consuming raw/unpasteurized milk or milk products remain in place.

Clinical Case in a Dairy Farm Worker

A recent study reported on the first reported human case of H5N1 infection in a U.S. dairy farm worker who experienced ocular discomfort without respiratory symptoms or fever. The worker had close contact with symptomatic dairy cows from farms with confirmed H5N1 infections. Personal protective equipment included gloves but no ocular protection. Swab specimens from the conjunctiva and nasopharynx confirmed H5N1 through RT-PCR and viral genome sequencing. Home isolation and oral oseltamivir were recommended, leading to resolution of conjunctivitis.

No secondary infections were reported among household contacts. Importantly, viral sequences showed no mutations suggesting changes in receptor binding or antiviral susceptibility. However, a mutation in the internal PB2 gene showed a change that is more commonly associated with human adaptation and warrants close monitoring.

Implications and Recommendations

These reports underscore the need for comprehensive HPAI A(H5N1) surveillance in agricultural settings. While cattle infections have been reported by the USDA to be generally transient with mild symptoms, the potential impact on milk production and food security is significant. The risk of ongoing viral evolution and broad transmission among cattle could lead to further mammalian adaptation. Although human infections from cattle seem to be rare at this time, the burden of infection necessitates detailed assessments of human spillovers, especially in areas with current or prior outbreaks. This includes serology to establish spillover rates to humans and monitor for changes in spillover frequency.

While the general public’s risk remains low, those at higher risk include individuals with routine or frequent contact with potentially infected birds, livestock, other animals or contaminated animal products and environments (e.g., farmers, livestock workers, animal handlers, employees of milk and meat processing facilities, milk or carcass transport drivers, and veterinarians).

Human infections with H5N1 can occur when the virus enters the eyes, nose, or mouth, or is inhaled. This can happen through airborne droplets, small aerosol particles, or dust that settles on mucous membranes. Infection can also occur if a person touches a contaminated surface and then touches their mouth, eyes, or nose. Exposed individuals should monitor for symptoms within 10 days, including fever (100°F [37.8°C] or higher), chills, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing/shortness of breath, eye tearing, redness, or irritation, headaches, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, and diarrhea.

About the Co-Authors

Jason Kindrachuk, PhD is an Associate Professor, Canada Research Chair, Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.

Rick A. Bright, PhD is CEO, Bright Global Health and Former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Read more from Dr. Madad on the Academy blog:

Public Health Peril: The Fungus Among Us

A panel discussion from the South by Southwest event.

Think fungal infections are just annoying skin irritations like athlete’s foot and jock itch? Think again. The rise of antifungal resistance means the game has changed. What was once a surefire treatment is now uncertain, and severe, life-threatening fungal diseases are on the rise.

Published May 22, 2024

By Brooke Grindlinger, PhD

Panelists Paul Verweij, MD, FECMM (left), Professor of Clinical Mycology at Radboud University Medical Center of Expertise for Mycology; Tom Chiller, MD, MPHTM (center left), Chief of the Mycotic Diseases Branch at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and John Rex, MD, FACP (center right), Chief Medical Officer at the antifungal biotech F2G, Ltd.; speak with public health journalist and author Maryn McKenna (right) at SXSW on March 11, 2024. The panelists discussed the real-life challenges posed by fungi and why fungal infections are becoming harder to treat.

Fungi are everywhere: in the soil, on our skin, and in the air we breathe. They give us the cheese on our burgers and the beer and wine we love. Despite their benefits, fungi aren’t always our friends. Every day, we inhale up to 100,000 or more fungal spores—our immune system usually keeps infections at bay. Yet, out of the estimated 2-11 million fungal species, about 200 can make us sick. On March 11, 2024, the South by Southwest Conference panel “Will Fungi Be the Last of Us?,” moderated by public health journalist and author Maryn McKenna, explored how fighting harmful fungal species is a growing public health challenge.

The Agricultural Connection: How Fungicides Fuel Drug Resistance

While we may inhale numerous fungi, our primary defense against fungal infections is our body temperature—most fungi can’t survive the heat of our lungs and prefer cooler environments. However, certain fungal species like Candida auris and Aspergillus thrive at human body temperature and can cause severe disease in hospitalized patients with weakened immune systems. Panelist Paul Verweij, MD, FECMM, Professor of Clinical Mycology at Radboud University Medical Center of Expertise for Mycology, highlighted the threat of Candida auris: “This is a new yeast, which is emerging, and has spread all over the world since 1996. One of the problems with (it) is that it is drug resistant.”

Dr. Verweij explained that exposure to agricultural azoles, chemical fungicides used on food crops, has driven this fungus to develop resistance to azoles. “The problem we face in hospitals is that we use the same type of drugs to treat our patients,” Verweij lamented.

The panel highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to the development of agricultural fungicides that do not have harmful ramifications for human health. Panelist John Rex, MD, FACP, Chief Medical Officer at the antifungal biotech F2G, Ltd., cited a 2023 concept paper issued by the US Environmental Protection Agency and developed in collaboration with the US Department of Health and Human Services, the US Department of Agriculture, and offices within the White House Executive Office of the President.

The paper, titled Concept for a Framework to Assess the Risk to the Effectiveness of Human and Animal Drugs Posed by Certain Antibacterial or Antifungal Pesticides, sought public feedback on potential solutions, research, or mitigation approaches to reduce the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Panelist Tom Chiller, MD, MPHTM, Chief of the Mycotic Diseases Branch at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention added, “The key is that we’re bringing groups together that don’t traditionally talk. We need to recognize that we each have problems that are going to be solved with these medicines. But how do we do it together so that we don’t affect that critical treatment [for a] patient with a fungal disease?”

Rising Temperatures, Rising Threats: Fungi in a Changing Climate

Dr. Chiller also emphasized the impact of climate change on the evolution of fungal species. “Fungi live out in the environment. If the environment changes—and climate change is causing environmental changes—the fungi have to adapt. They are going to try to tolerate higher temperatures. We need to understand that more.” Chiller pointed to Valley Fever, caused by the soil-based fungus Coccidioides: “It’s mainly in the Southwest [of the US], but now we know that the geographic area of this fungus is spreading. I have to think that climate change is playing a role.”

Closer Cousins Than You Think

Dr. Rex highlighted a critical difference in treating bacterial versus fungal infections. “You’ve heard of things like penicillin, sulfa [drugs], and erythromycin. There are at least a dozen completely different kinds of treatments for bacterial infections.” In contrast, Rex noted, “for fungi, there are only three major classes. The reason …. is that, believe it or not, one of your closest cousins is the fungi. We’re quite closely related, genetically. To find something that just kills the fungus and not the person, that’s hard. There are very few novel classes [of antifungal drugs] and each one we find is a precious jewel.”

Rapid diagnosis of fungal infection also remains challenging. Patient symptoms are often non-specific, and the sensitivity and specificity of available tests vary widely. Dr. Verweij shared his clinical experiences: “With only two classes of drug treatment available for Aspergillus infection, resistance to one treatment leaves the physician with just one drug to administer to the patient.” He highlighted the severe toxic side effects and the limited reach of these drugs. “If the infection spreads from the lung to the brain, then it’s extremely difficult to treat, and you can end up with an untreatable infection.”

Reviving Antimicrobial Development: The Promise of the PASTEUR Act

“Over the past decade, we’ve had several new antibiotics get approved, and then the companies go bankrupt,” Dr. Rex noted. He emphasized the importance of creating a sustainable financial model for developing and distributing new antimicrobials. “I’m very concerned that the ecosystem of people who know how to invent these drugs is drying up,” he warned. Dr. Rex shared his 15-year involvement in the development of the Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions To End Upsurging Resistance Act of 2023 (PASTEUR Act).

This bill, re-introduced in the US Senate in April 2023, aims to stimulate innovative drug development, improve the appropriate use of antibiotics, and ensure domestic availability of critical need antimicrobial medicines to prevent AMR from becoming the next global pandemic. The PASTEUR Act proposes an innovative payment model where the US federal government invests $6 billion over 10 years in novel antibiotics and antifungals through installment payments. In return, developers would provide their drugs free of charge to government programs once available. This initiative is designed to foster much-needed investment and prepare the nation’s health care system for the increasing threat of antibiotic- and antifungal-resistant infections.

Antifungal Development in the AI Era

Conference discussion also centered on the pervasive influence of artificial intelligence (AI) across diverse industries and its role in antifungal development naturally emerged. Dr. Rex emphasized the immense potential of AI tools in assessing the toxicity risks associated with promising molecules identified during drug development. He noted, “That has, so far, evaded all simple prediction tools.”

Learn more about the dual nature of fungi—beneficial allies and deadly foes—at the July 18, 2024 hybrid Academy event featuring a conversation with mycologist, immunologist, and author Arturo Casadevall, MD, PhD, about his new book, What if Fungi Win?

Building Trust Through Transparency in Biorisk Management

A group of people sit around a u-shaped table in a boardroom.

Transparency is key to the entire framework of responsible life sciences research.

Note: The reflections in this blog are of Dr. Syra Madad and Dr. Filippa Lentzos and do not represent the viewpoints of TAG-RULS DUR, the World Health Organization or The New York Academy of Sciences.

Published May 13, 2024

By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP, and Filippa Lentzos

First meeting of the Technical Advisory Group on the Responsible Use of the Life Sciences and Dual-Use Research in Geneva on 16-17 April 2024. Photo courtesy of Marc Bader/WHO.

In September 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) marked a significant milestone in global health security by issuing the Global Guidance Framework for the Responsible Use of the Life Sciences, aimed at setting a global standard for mitigating biorisks and governing dual-use research. More recently, the WHO set up a Technical Advisory Group on the Responsible Use of the Life Sciences and Dual-Use Research (TAG-RULS DUR) to support implementation of the Guidance Framework, and as members of that group we had the privilege of participating in its first in-person meeting at the WHO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. This historic gathering underscored the critical need for communication, collaboration, and coordination.

Prior to the meeting, we reflected on a crucial lesson gleaned from the COVID-19 pandemic: the imperative to rebuild trust in science. Drawing from our expertise in biosecurity and biorisk management, we discussed the foundational principle for fostering global trust in science: transparency in biosecurity risk management.

Transparency in Biorisk Management

Transparency in biorisk management involves several layers, from disclosing research methodologies to sharing findings and potential risks associated with biological advances. This transparency is crucial not only for advancing scientific knowledge but also for maintaining public trust, understanding and engagement. To effectively unpack the concept of transparency in biorisk management, let’s consider its practical application across different dimensions. These layers of transparency are not just theoretical; they are implemented through specific practices that are essential for maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of scientific research. Here are three critical aspects where transparency plays a pivotal role:

1. Disclosing Research and Outcomes

It is essential that scientific endeavors, especially where dual-use potential is high, are conducted as openly as possible, and that the intent, potential benefits and potential harms of the research are clearly communicated. This openness helps the scientific community and publics to better understand risk-benefit assessment associated with the research, as well as fosters an informed dialogue about what constitutes responsible science in this context and what safeguards might be necessary.

2. Engagement with Public and Stakeholders:

Effective risk communication is a vital aspect of transparency. It involves clear, consistent, and accessible information being provided to the public. In addition to scientists, our discussions highlighted the role of various stakeholders, including funders, publishers and host institutions, in disseminating balanced and factual information to demystify scientific processes and debunk myths and misinformation.

3. Collaborative Governance

The governance of dual-use research requires cooperation across national and international frameworks. By sharing best practices, challenges, and successes in a transparent manner, countries and institutions can better prepare and respond to biosecurity risks. Collaborative governance also includes public engagement in policy-making, ensuring that the voices of affected, or potentially affected, communities are heard and considered.

In our continuous journey towards safer and more secure scientific practice, the role of transparency cannot be overstated. It is not merely a procedural element but a foundational principle that supports the entire framework of responsible life sciences research.

By adhering to transparent practices, we not only safeguard against misuse but also build a more resilient trust in science that is crucial for societal advancement. Transparency, engaged governance, and robust stakeholder communication are not optional but essential to our collective efforts in ensuring the safe use of biotechnologies. The path forward is clear; it is one of openness, engagement, and unwavering commitment to global health security.

The Role of TAG-RULS DUR

The WHO’s Technical Advisory Group on the Responsible Use of the Life Sciences and Dual-Use Research (TAG-RULS DUR) plays a pivotal role in advising WHO and its Member States on the responsible use of life sciences, focusing on mitigating biorisks and governing dual-use research. Our mission aligns with the One Health approach, which optimizes the health of people, animals, and ecosystems, and recognizes the interdependence of health and biological sciences. The group’s formation reflects a collective commitment to address safety and security concerns posed by novel and existing technologies, which, while promising, can also harbor potential risks for accidental or deliberate harm. Learn more about TAG-RULS DUR.

Dr. Syra Madad (left) and Dr. Filippa Lentzos (right) at the World Health Organization Headquarters.

About the Co-Author

Filippa Lentzos is the Reader (Associate Professor) in Science & International Security at King’s College London. She holds a joint appointment in the Department of War Studies and the Department of Global Health & Social Medicine.

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How to Make Your Junior Academy Application Shine

Each year we seek out passionate STEM-interested students from around the world to join our signature high school research program. Here are four smart tips that will give your application an edge.

Published April 19, 2024

By Kaitlin Green

Through the Junior Academy of The New York Academy of Sciences, high school students ages 13-17 develop research, innovation, and collaboration skills. They leverage these skills to compete in Innovation Challenges sponsored by industry-leading companies, where they work under the guidance of a STEM professional. In order to participate, students must have access to a computer, phone or tablet, an internet connection, and a global mindset, as Junior Academy teams are composed of a cohort of students from different countries all over the world.

It’s a very unqiue STEM learning experience, and every year, we seek out passionate high school students interested in STEM to join. If you’re a student who wants to apply, keep these tips in mind for how to make your application shine.

Tip #1: Be thoughtful about your answers to the essay questions.

The Junior Academy is looking for what makes you unique. Is there something that makes you stand out in school or extracurricular activities?

When writing your responses, be clear and concise. You only have 500 words to complete each question; but if you can get your point across in fewer words, don’t feel like you have to use all the space. Proofread your answers carefully. Ask a friend or family member to read your answers before you submit the application—they may spot an error you missed.

Tip #2: Talk about the personal challenges you’ve overcome.

When you’re part of the Junior Academy, you’ll be using creative problem-solving skills. That means overcoming obstacles in your path. We’ve all faced obstacles in our lives, so tell us about a tricky situation you faced and how you handled it. For example, did you ever have a report, a test, and a project all due in the same week? If so, how did you complete them all to the best of your ability? Or, have you ever made the team after previously having been rejected? How did you regroup and succeed the second time around? Stories of perseverance and resilience are what we want to hear.

Tip #3: Show us you’re a team player.

When you work on an innovation challenge, you will collaborate on a team of two to six people. Share a time that you’ve worked with a team towards a common goal. Did you have a particular skill that you brought to the table? Let us know what it is.

Tip #4: Explain how you’ll be able to meet the time commitment.

You’ll need work with your team three to four hours a week on your challenge solution. How will you balance this with your academics, other extracurricular activities, and personal life?

Learn more about the Junior Academy.

The Rising Threat of H5N1 Bird Flu in the U.S.

The CDC recently confirmed a human case of HPAI A (H5N1) in Texas. Renowned epidemiologist Syra Madad and distinguished virologist Jason Kindrachuk offer tips to farmers, animal caretakers, and the general public on how to avoid contracting and spreading this strain of avian influenza.

Published April 16, 2024

By Syra Madad, D.H.Sc., M.Sc., MCP, CHEP, and Jason Kindrachuk, PhD

Image courtesy of monticellllo via stock.adobe.com.

Avian influenza H5N1, commonly known as bird flu, is a viral infection that affects both domestic and wild birds, along with a wide array of other animals. First identified in 1996, H5N1 has recently re-emerged in a significant panzootic form, specifically clade 2.3.4.4.b, impacting a broad spectrum of wildlife and domestic animals, including more than 200 mammal species.

Concerningly, this has included confirmed infections among numerous species not previously known to be susceptible to H5N1, including marine mammals, as well as in agricultural mammalian species such as cattle and goats. The rapid geographic expansion to all continents except Australia is also concerning. This notable spread across species is particularly alarming due to the potential for severe illness and death in humans as well as economic and food security impacts. This includes both within the agriculture industry as well as among communities reliant on wild game as a food source.

Confirmed Case in Texas

In March, the CDC confirmed a human case of HPAI A(H5N1) in Texas, related to contact with infected dairy cattle, marking the first recorded instance of probable mammal-to-human transmission in the U.S., and the second human case since 2022. Although human infections are rare and no sustained human-to-human transmission has been reported in the U.S., this event underlines the real risk H5N1 poses to individuals in close proximity to infected animals or contaminated environments.

Of note, a single mutation previously found to be associated with adaptation to mammalian hosts was identified within the viral genome sequence isolated from the recent U.S. case (PB2 E627K). However, while this demonstrates the need for continued surveillance and analysis of H5N1 genome sequences, there is no current evidence suggestive of altered human-to-human transmission for the virus or increased antiviral resistance. The CDC currently deems the risk to the broader U.S. populace as low; nevertheless, people with unprotected, extended exposure to infected birds or animals, or to contaminated areas, are at an elevated risk of contracting the virus.

The table below outlines recommended preventive measures for both the general public and those at heightened risk due to their work or recreational activities, aiming to reduce the likelihood of H5N1 infection.

About the Co-Author

Jason Kindrachuk, PhD is an Associate Professor, Canada Research Chair, Department of Medical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada

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Women’s Health 2.0: The Artificial Intelligence Era

Charting the evolution of women’s healthcare in the AI era, illuminating the promise and challenges of predictive tech to close the health gender gap.

Published April 12, 2024

By Brooke Grindlinger, PhD

Panelists Sara Reistad-Long (left), Healthcare Strategist at Empowered; Alicia Jackson, PhD, Founder and CEO of Evernow; Christina Jenkins, MD, General Partner at Convergent Ventures; and Robin Berzin, MD, Founder and CEO of Parsley Health speak at SXSW on March 9, 2024. The panelists discussed the promise and risks that AI and predictive tech carry as a path to closing the healthcare gender gap.

Less than 2% of global healthcare research and development is dedicated to female-specific conditions beyond cancer, as was starkly revealed in the January 2024 World Economic Forum and McKinsey Health Institute report, “Closing the Women’s Health Gap: A $1 Trillion Opportunity to Improve Lives and Economies.” Rectifying this disparity holds the potential to inject over $1 trillion annually into the global economy by 2040 through bolstered female workforce participation.

In February 2024, America’s First Lady Jill Biden unveiled a $100 million federal funding initiative for women’s health research, marking a significant milestone for the White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research intended to fundamentally change how the US approaches and funds research in this area. On March 9, 2024, the South by Southwest Conference hosted a pivotal panel discussion titled “Can AI Close the Health Gender Gap?” moderated by Sara Reistad-Long, a Healthcare Strategist at Empowered. This gathering of clinicians, digital health tech executives, and investors delved into the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and predictive technology in mitigating gender disparities in healthcare.

Women’s Health Beyond Reproduction

The panelists began by establishing a shared definition of ‘women’s health.’ Historically, women’s health has been narrowly defined as reproductive health, primarily concerning the female reproductive organs such as the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and to some extent, breasts. Yet, as panelist Christina Jenkins, MD, General Partner at Convergent Ventures, aptly pointed out, the scope of women’s health transcends this narrow scope.

“There’s so much more to women’s health than that,” she emphasized, advocating for a broader understanding. “We consider ‘women’s health’ as a specific practice… focused on things that are unique to women, which are those reproductive organs and [associated conditions], but also conditions that disproportionately… or differently affect women.” She elaborated with examples ranging from autoimmune diseases to conditions like migraine, colon cancer, and variances in women’s reactions to asthma medications.

Overlooked and Underserved: Women’s Health Blind Spots

The historical exclusion of women from health research and clinical trials has perpetuated the flawed assumption that women’s bodies and health outcomes mirror those of men, neglecting their unique biological and medical complexities. “Women were not included in medical research until 1993. Women are diagnosed later in over 700 conditions. Some of our most pressing chronic conditions that are on the rise take 5-7 years to be diagnosed—like autoimmune conditions—and 80% of them occur in women,” observed panelist Robin Berzin, MD, Founder and CEO of digital health company Parsley Health.

AI’s Promise in Closing the Research to Practice Gap

Alicia Jackson, PhD, Founder and CEO of digital health company Evernow, which is focused on women’s health at ages 40+, has spearheaded groundbreaking research that has yielded one of the most extensive and diverse datasets on menopause and perimenopause. This dataset encompasses a multifaceted understanding, ranging from the manifestation of bodily symptoms during these life stages to the impact of variables such as race, ethnicity, income levels, hysterectomy status, and concurrent medications on patient outcomes.

Furthermore, Jackson and her team have identified treatment protocols associated with both short-term relief and long-term health benefits. Despite possessing this wealth of information, Jackson posed a critical question: “I now have this massive dataset, but how do I actually get it into clinical practice to impact the woman that I am seeing tomorrow?” “There’s a huge opportunity for us to leverage clinical data in new ways to give us insights to personalize care,” added Berzin.

From Data Deluge to Personalized Care

Despite the increasing availability of rich research data on women’s health, significant challenges persist in promptly translating this data into effective patient care. With over a million new peer-reviewed publications in biomedicine added annually to the PubMed database, the sheer volume overwhelms individual healthcare providers. “That’s an impossible sum of research for any individual doctor…to digest and use,” observed Berzin. “New information takes 17 years to make its way from publication into medical education, and then even longer into clinical practice,” she lamented. “What I’m excited about when it comes to AI and closing the gender gap is the opportunity for us to close the research gap.

What AI will let all of us do is take in a lot of the data sets that have been unwieldy in the past and leverage them to personalize care. The rapidity and pace at which we can begin to gain insights from the data, which is otherwise like drinking from a fire hose, represents an opportunity for us to catch up [on] that gender gap.” Jackson added, “AI gives me a time machine…to immediately take those results and apply them and impact women today.”

AI Nurse Anytime, Anywhere

The conversation shifted to AI’s potential to address the critical shortage of healthcare providers in the United States. Berzin highlighted the systemic issues, stating, “We don’t have enough doctors. We are not training enough doctors. Nor are we importing enough doctors. We have really big disparities in terms of where the doctors are.” Jackson expanded on the role of AI beyond tackling the provider shortfall and fast-tracking diagnostic processes, emphasizing its potential to facilitate culturally sensitive care.

She emphasized that AI could go beyond delivering data and outcomes; it’s about understanding the nuances of cultural preferences in healthcare delivery. Jackson noted that women want more than just symptom discussion; they want to delve into the emotional and relational impacts of navigating the healthcare system. “Right now, no traditional healthcare system has time beyond that 15-minute appointment to listen and to understand.” However, AI offers the possibility of unlimited time for patients to share their experiences.

With the assistance of AI, patients can access personalized care on their terms, allowing for a more enriching and fulfilling healthcare experience. Jackson continued, “If you have a $9 per hour AI nurse that can take that entire [patient] history, that [the patient can] call up in the middle of the night, on your commute to work, and just continue to add to that [history]…now you’ve created this very, very rich experience. Suddenly, it’s healthcare on your terms.”

Women’s Patient Empowerment Through AI

In addition to its potential to enhance healthcare accessibility and availability, AI emerged as a catalyst for empowering women to take charge of their healthcare journey. Jackson underscored a prevalent issue in women’s healthcare: the need for multiple doctor visits before receiving a correct diagnosis. She highlighted AI’s transformative potential in bridging this gap by empowering women to input their symptoms into AI platforms like ChatGPT, potentially integrating data from wearable devices, and receiving informed guidance—such as urgent care recommendations—immediately. This represents a significant stride in patient empowerment.

AI’s Achilles’ Heel

However, Jenkins cautioned against the pitfalls of AI, citing the case of Babylon Health, a UK-based digital health service provider. She recounted a troubling incident where the Babylon Health AI platform, during a system test, misdiagnosed a woman experiencing symptoms of a heart attack as having an anxiety attack, while advising a man with the same symptoms and medical history to seek immediate medical attention for a heart attack.

“This is what happens when you build something well-meaning on top of bad data,” cautioned Jenkins. She went on to emphasize the critical need to use real-world evidence to mitigate gender biases entrenched in clinical research data. “There is an imperative, not just for the algorithms to eliminate bias, but to make sure that the data sources are there. That’s why we have to use real-world evidence instead of clinical research.”

Learn more about the opportunities and challenges surrounding the integration of AI-driven technologies into the healthcare system at the upcoming Academy conference: The New Wave of AI in Healthcare 2024, May 1-2, 2024 in New York.

Rule Makers and Breakers in the Space Race for Off-Earth Resources

From space junk to mining critical minerals on the Moon, this South by Southwest panel explored ambiguities in the governance of space ventures.

Published March 28, 2024

By Brooke Grindlinger, PhD

Panelists Monique M. Chism, PhD (left), Under Secretary for Education at the Smithsonian Institution; Aida Araissi, Founder and CEO of the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce; Kirsten Bartok Touw, aerospace, space, and defense tech investor and Co-Founder and Managing Partner of New Vista Capital; and A.J. Crabill, National Director of Governance for the Council of the Great City Schools; speak at SXSW on March 11, 2024. The panelists discussed the need for a cohesive and forward-looking governance approach to the business of space, to ensure equitable access and opportunity for all in this growing industry.

Space exploration not only signifies a pioneering frontier for deepening our comprehension of the universe but also serves as a pivotal gateway to unprecedented resources, technologies, and job opportunities, poised to emerge both on and beyond Earth’s bounds. What was once exclusively the domain of national governments has now evolved into a thriving commercial industry, fueled by the burgeoning participation of the private sector in space exploration. To guarantee the safety, accessibility, and positive impact of space exploration, it’s imperative to develop evolving governance mechanisms that effectively oversee resource allocation, foster international collaboration, prioritize safety and security, address ethical dilemmas, and tackle the escalating challenges of space debris and traffic management. On March 11, 2024, a diverse assembly of space investors, public and private stakeholders, ethicists, and enthusiasts congregated at Austin’s South by Southwest Conference to glean insights from the panel session titled ‘Governance Beyond Gravity: Unity & Exploration,’ helmed by Dr. Monique M. Chism, Under Secretary for Education at the Smithsonian Institution.

Satellite Superhighway: Redefining Space Access

Amid our captivation by the human presence aboard the International Space Station, the allure of Mars exploration, and the awe-inspiring vistas from the James Webb Space Telescope, it’s easy to overlook the bustling thoroughfare of satellites silently navigating Earth’s orbit. Remarkably, data from the tracking site Orbiting Now reveals a staggering count of over 9,600 satellites currently overhead, with SpaceX‘s Starlink network alone accounting for more than 6,000 of them.

The burgeoning satellite network not only amplifies global connectivity and intelligence capabilities but also signifies a democratization of space access, with over 70 nations, in conjunction with numerous private sector entities, having effectively launched satellites into low Earth orbit, endowing their operators with advanced communication and intelligence resources. The acquisition of precise Earth observation data, down to the millimeter level, fuels unmatched insights, opportunities, and competition.

Fellow panelist, Kirsten Bartok Touw, an aerospace, space, and defense tech investor and Co-Founder and Managing Partner of New Vista Capital underscored, “The concept of national security and protecting your country’s and your allies’ access to space, and all that is up there, is incredibly important.” However, Bartok Touw proposed that this unique and specialized business sector should not solely reside within the purview of governments. “We need to work with commercial companies—they iterate, they move faster, they design.” Beyond intelligence applications, Bartok Touw highlighted the numerous commercial opportunities in space, ranging from asteroid and lunar mining for rare Earth minerals to satellite monitoring for methane leaks, and even drug discovery, which can occur at an accelerated pace due to the absence of gravity in space. “This is a race for unexplored capabilities and areas. The first companies up there to lay claim are going to be the furthest and most advanced.”

Space Governance in Flux: Challenges and Opportunities

In the absence of established human settlements in space or local space governments, the space community navigates a complex web of governance policies crafted over decades. These include the foundational Outer Space Treaty of 1967, ratified by 112 nations, the 1979 Agreement Governing the Activities of States on the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies, colloquially known as the ‘Moon Agreement,’ ratified by a mere 18 nations, and the recent non-binding 2020 proposal, the Artemis Accords, which serves as an international legal framework aimed at orchestrating the peaceful exploration and utilization of space resources.

Panelist A.J. Crabill, National Director of Governance for the Council of the Great City Schools in Washington DC offered insights into the pivotal role of space, and space governance, in shaping the future of our society. “That future requires stepping out of our birthing cradle and being able to access resources beyond those that are terrestrial. However, the moment you have a lot of people doing that you’re immediately going to run into conflict. That’s when the need for systems of governance come into place. How do we protect both people and resources [and] how do we collaborate effectively around services that are needed? All of those become way more complicated outside of Earth’s atmosphere.”

Bartok Touw flagged that prior space governance policies relied on country-to-country agreements. But today, independent commercial operators like SpaceX, which launch and lease satellites for a variety of government and private entities, can limit the access that a country or corporation has in their region to space-based communications. “The state-to-state agreements that we had earlier [are] being disrupted today because now it’s not just country-to-country… it’s commercial entity-to-commercial entity. I would love to live in a world where all these nations and commercial entities could agree, but that is not the case we’re in.”

The Lack of an Enforcement Mechanism

Panelist Aida Araissi, Founder and CEO of the Bilateral Chamber of Commerce, injected some optimism into the discussion, remarking, “The countries that are at the forefront of accessing the Moon are [the United States], the Soviet Union, China, and India. It’s an exciting time.” However, as humanity’s quest to return to the Moon and journey to Mars intensifies, Araissi raised concerns about the governance of commercial activities, such as lunar mining. “Exactly whose jurisdiction is that, and how are we going to regulate that? That is the key question.” Bartok Touw echoed, “That is the problem, there isn’t an enforcing mechanism.”

Crabill adopted a pragmatic stance, invoking the satirical adage, “He who has the gold makes the rules.” He elaborated, “Unfortunately, we see this time and time [again] when we’re looking at governance systems—school systems, states, cities, nations—whoever has the keys of authority…the access to resources, does wind up making the rules. If we want space governance to follow our values, we have to be there first in a powerful way, establish industry, and establish resources. And then our values of bringing other people in coalition can be what carries the day.”

Reflecting on the evolution of space governance, Crabill noted that reaching consensus was easier during the theoretical discussions of the 1950s and 1960s. However, as society approaches the technological reality of widespread space access, the complexities of governance intensify. “Governing the imminent is much more complicated than governing the hypothetical.”

Learn more about the ethical, legal, and social issues relevant to space exploration and long-term human settlement in space at the upcoming event featuring a conversation with space ethicist, astrophysicist, and author Erika Nesvold: Off-Earth: Ethical Questions and Quandaries for Living in Outer Space.

When Waters Rise: Cross-Border Science for Global Flood Response

Pedestrians navigate a flooded city street.

What role can scientific experts play in international flood prediction and response?

Published December 12, 2022

By ISR Staff

Around the world, flooding is wreaking havoc on people’s daily lives with increasing magnitude and frequency. Communities in Nigeria, Chad, Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Cameroon are experiencing some of the worst floods in a decade, as they sweep across western and central African borders.

In Pakistan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Australia, and the United States—such as in Florida and Kentucky—communities have faced multiple dangerous and deadly floods in 2022. These unprecedented flood events have killed thousands of people, displaced millions, decimated farms and businesses, and destroyed homes and habitats.

The World Bank reports that about one and a half billion people are at risk from flooding, one-third of whom are living in poverty, making them more vulnerable to migration pressures and economic insecurity. While flooding can be a natural phenomenon that can help provide fertile soil and sustain wetlands, today’s floods are becoming more frequent, dangerous, and deadly, as a result of human-caused climate disruption and development in urban, coastal areas. 

When flood water crosses national borders, “transboundary floods” can be even more catastrophic without international cooperation around emergency management, such as early warning systems. In a recent Science Unusual webinar, hosted by the International Science Reserve, a group of panelists explored the role scientific and technical experts can play in large-scale, international flood prediction, prevention, preparation and response.

Speaking on the panel were:

Nora El-Gohary, Professor of Construction Engineering and Management, The Grainger College of Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Njoki Mwarumba, Assistant Professor of Emergency Management and Disaster, University of Nebraska Omaha
Anthony Torres, Chief Meteorologist and Head of Global Science Operations, Currently weather service
Campbell Watson, Senior Research Scientist – IBM Research, Global Lead, Accelerated Discovery—Climate & Sustainability
Ugochi Anyaka-Oluigbo, Environment and Conservation Journalist, Nigeria (Moderator)

Here are three big takeaways from the discussion:

1. Breaking down borders between social scientists and other types of scientists who study floods will lead to better outcomes for people and communities.

Njoki Mwarumba kicks off the discussion on why we need to break down siloes.

Nora El-Gohary on how scientists can help reduce the impacts of floods on infrastructure.

2. Using atmospheric data to predict flooding impacts is just the beginning. Protecting the most vulnerable requires a stronger analysis on how the atmosphere interacts with oceanic and local land systems, and human habitats.

Anthony Torres on where meteorology interacts with other disciplines and AI to predict floods.

3. Scientists should work to understand indigenous knowledge in order to better collaborate on early warning systems that save lives.

Njoki Mwarumba discusses the impact of leaving entire regions out of advances in technology, like early warning systems.

Anthony Torres on building two-way streets of communication between communities and scientists.

4. Artificial intelligence is enhancing our ability to predict and prepare for floods. But we must simplify access to increasingly complex data processes and improve their usage across borders.

Campbell Watson shares his thoughts on AI and its impact on flood modeling.

Campbell Watson discusses how IBM is researching and responding to global floods.

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