Thursday Links Posted on August 1, 2024August 7, 2024 by John C. Goodman “For less than $100,000, it may now be possible to use artificial intelligence to develop a virus that could kill millions of people.” (NYT) Over 207,000 cases of syphilis were reported in 2022, an 80 percent increase since 2018 and the highest number reported since 1950. Online portals deliver scary health news before doctors can weigh in. (WaPo) A blood test can predict the risk of developing more than 60 diseases. Being an Olympic host is expensive. Inevitable cost overruns are even more expensive. The case for increased federal R&D spending as a catalyst for economic growth and technological innovation.