Biological Warfare
Biological Warfare Agents
Chemical Warfare Agents
Chemical Warfare
Literature, Medieval
Mustard Gas
Glanders
Bioterrorism
Burkholderia mallei
Plague
Sarin
Anthrax
Phosphoric Triester Hydrolases
Soman
Organothiophosphorus Compounds
Persian Gulf Syndrome
Military Science
Organophosphates
Development of quantitative real-time PCR assays for detection and quantification of surrogate biological warfare agents in building debris and leachate. (1/48)
Evaluation of the fate and transport of biological warfare (BW) agents in landfills requires the development of specific and sensitive detection assays. The objective of the current study was to develop and validate SYBR green quantitative real-time PCR (Q-PCR) assays for the specific detection and quantification of surrogate BW agents in synthetic building debris (SBD) and leachate. Bacillus atrophaeus (vegetative cells and spores) and Serratia marcescens were used as surrogates for Bacillus anthracis (anthrax) and Yersinia pestis (plague), respectively. The targets for SYBR green Q-PCR assays were the 16S-23S rRNA intergenic transcribed spacer (ITS) region and recA gene for B. atrophaeus and the gyrB, wzm, and recA genes for S. marcescens. All assays showed high specificity when tested against 5 ng of closely related Bacillus and Serratia nontarget DNA from 21 organisms. Several spore lysis methods that include a combination of one or more of freeze-thaw cycles, chemical lysis, hot detergent treatment, bead beat homogenization, and sonication were evaluated. All methods tested showed similar threshold cycle values. The limit of detection of the developed Q-PCR assays was determined using DNA extracted from a pure bacterial culture and DNA extracted from sterile water, leachate, and SBD samples spiked with increasing quantities of surrogates. The limit of detection for B. atrophaeus genomic DNA using the ITS and B. atrophaeus recA Q-PCR assays was 7.5 fg per PCR. The limits of detection of S. marcescens genomic DNA using the gyrB, wzm, and S. marcescens recA Q-PCR assays were 7.5 fg, 75 fg, and 7.5 fg per PCR, respectively. Quantification of B. atrophaeus vegetative cells and spores was linear (R(2) > 0.98) over a 7-log-unit dynamic range down to 10(1) B. atrophaeus cells or spores. Quantification of S. marcescens (R(2) > 0.98) was linear over a 6-log-unit dynamic range down to 10(2) S. marcescens cells. The developed Q-PCR assays are highly specific and sensitive and can be used for monitoring the fate and transport of the BW surrogates B. atrophaeus and S. marcescens in building debris and leachate. (+info)Survival of Burkholderia pseudomallei on Environmental Surfaces. (2/48)
The survival of the biothreat agent Burkholderia pseudomallei on the surfaces of four materials was measured by culture and esterase activity analyses. The culture results demonstrated that this organism persisted for <24 h to <7 days depending on the material, bacterial isolate, and suspension medium. The persistence determined by analysis of esterase activity, as measured with a ScanRDI solid-phase cytometer, was always longer than the persistence determined by culture analysis. (+info)Structure- and substrate-based inhibitor design for Clostridium botulinum neurotoxin serotype A. (3/48)
(+info)Early indicators of exposure to biological threat agents using host gene profiles in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. (4/48)
(+info)Dynamics of positional warfare malaria: Finland and Korea compared. (5/48)
(+info)Evasion of complement-mediated lysis and complement C3 deposition are regulated by Francisella tularensis lipopolysaccharide O antigen. (6/48)
The bacterium Francisella tularensis (Ft) is a potential weapon of bioterrorism when aerosolized. Macrophage infection is necessary for disease progression and efficient phagocytosis by human macrophages requires serum opsonization by complement. Microbial complement activation leads to surface deposition of a highly regulated protein complex resulting in opsonization or membrane lysis. The nature of complement component C3 deposition, i.e., C3b (opsonization and lysis) or C3bi (opsonization only) fragment deposition, is central to the outcome of activation. In this study, we examine the mechanisms of Ft resistance to complement-mediated lysis, C3 component deposition on the Ft surface, and complement activation. Upon incubation in fresh nonimmune human serum, Schu S4 (Ft subsp. tularensis), Fn (Ft subsp. novicida), and LVS (Ft subsp. holarctica live vaccine strain) were resistant to complement-mediated lysis, but LVSG and LVSR (LVS strains altered in surface carbohydrate structures) were susceptible. C3 deposition, however, occurred on all strains. Complement-susceptible strains had markedly increased C3 fragment deposition, including the persistent presence of C3b compared with C3bi, which indicates that C3b inactivation results in survival of complement-resistant strains. C1q, an essential component of the classical activation pathway, was necessary for lysis of complement-susceptible strains and optimal C3 deposition on all strains. Finally, use of Francisella LPS mutants confirmed O Ag as a major regulator of complement resistance. These data provide evidence that pathogenic Francisella activate complement, but are resistant to complement-mediated lysis in part due to limited C3 deposition, rapid conversion of surface-bound C3b to C3bi, and the presence of LPS O Ag. (+info)Zoonoses likely to be used in bioterrorism. (7/48)
Bioterrorism is the deliberate release of viruses, bacteria, or other agents used "to cause illness or death in people, animals, or plants. Only modest microbiologic skills are needed to produce and effectively use biologic weapons. And biological warfare has afflicted campaigns throughout military history, at times playing an important role in determining their outcomes. There is a long list of potential pathogens for use by terrorists, but only a few are easy to prepare and disperse. Of the infectious diseases, the vast majority are zoonoses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's highest-priority bioterrorism agents are in Category A. The only disease that does not affect animals in Category A is smallpox, which was eliminated by a worldwide vaccination program in the late 1970s. Because these diseases can infect animals and humans, the medical and veterinary communities should work closely together in clinical, public health, and research settings. (+info)Animals as early detectors of bioevents: veterinary tools and a framework for animal-human integrated zoonotic disease surveillance. (8/48)
The threat of bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases has prompted various public health agencies to recommend enhanced surveillance activities to supplement existing surveillance plans. The majority of emerging infectious diseases and bioterrorist agents are zoonotic. Animals are more sensitive to certain biological agents, and their use as clinical sentinels, as a means of early detection, is warranted. This article provides design methods for a local integrated zoonotic surveillance plan and materials developed for veterinarians to assist in the early detection of bioevents. Zoonotic surveillance in the U.S. is currently too limited and compartmentalized for broader public health objectives. To rapidly detect and respond to bioevents, collaboration and cooperation among various agencies at the federal, state, and local levels must be enhanced and maintained. Co-analysis of animal and human diseases may facilitate the response to infectious disease events and limit morbidity and mortality in both animal and human populations. (+info)Biological warfare, also known as germ warfare, is the use of biological agents or toxins with the intent to cause disease or death in humans, animals, or plants. These agents can be spread through the air, water, or food and can include bacteria, viruses, fungi, or toxic substances produced by living organisms. The purpose of using these agents is typically to cause widespread illness, fear, and disruption. Biological warfare is considered a weapon of mass destruction and is illegal under international law.
Biological warfare agents are pathogenic organisms or toxins that are intentionally used in a military conflict or act of terrorism to cause disease, death, or disruption. These agents can be bacteria, viruses, fungi, or toxins produced by living organisms. They can be spread through the air, water, or food and can cause a range of illnesses, from mild symptoms to serious diseases that can be fatal if left untreated.
Biological warfare agents are considered weapons of mass destruction because they have the potential to cause widespread harm and panic. The use of such agents is prohibited by international law, and their production, storage, and transportation are closely monitored and regulated. Despite these efforts, there remains a risk that biological warfare agents could be used in acts of terrorism or other hostile actions.
Chemical warfare agents are defined as chemical substances that are intended or have the capability to cause death, injury, temporary incapacitation, or sensory irritation through their toxic properties when deployed in a military theater. These agents can be in gaseous, liquid, or solid form and are typically categorized based on their physiological effects. Common categories include nerve agents (e.g., sarin, VX), blister agents (e.g., mustard gas), choking agents (e.g., phosgene), blood agents (e.g., cyanide), and incapacitating agents (e.g., BZ). The use of chemical warfare agents is prohibited by international law under the Chemical Weapons Convention.
Chemical warfare is the use of chemicals in military conflict to incapacitate, injure, or kill enemy personnel or destroy equipment and resources. It involves the employment of toxic gases, liquids, or solids that have harmful effects on humans, animals, or plants. Chemical weapons can cause a wide range of symptoms, from temporary discomfort to permanent disability or death, depending on the type and amount of chemical used, as well as the duration and route of exposure.
Chemical warfare agents are classified into several categories based on their primary effects:
1. Nerve agents: These chemicals inhibit the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Examples include sarin, tabun, soman, and VX. Exposure to nerve agents can cause symptoms such as muscle twitching, convulsions, respiratory failure, and death.
2. Blister agents: Also known as vesicants, these chemicals cause severe blistering and burns to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Mustard gas is a well-known example of a blister agent. Exposure can lead to temporary or permanent blindness, respiratory problems, and scarring.
3. Choking agents: These chemicals cause damage to the lungs and respiratory system by irritating and inflaming the airways. Phosgene and chlorine are examples of choking agents. Symptoms of exposure include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and potentially fatal lung edema.
4. Blood agents: These chemicals interfere with the body's ability to transport oxygen in the blood, leading to asphyxiation. Cyanide is a common example of a blood agent. Exposure can cause rapid heart rate, dizziness, headache, seizures, and death due to lack of oxygen.
5. Incapacitating agents: These chemicals are designed to temporarily disable or disorient enemy personnel without causing serious harm or death. Examples include riot control agents such as tear gas (CS) and pepper spray (OC). Exposure can cause symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, tears, and temporary blindness.
The use of chemical weapons in warfare is prohibited by several international treaties, including the Geneva Protocol and the Chemical Weapons Convention. Despite these bans, there have been numerous instances of their use throughout history, most notably during World War I and more recently in Syria's ongoing civil war.
Medieval literature refers to the body of written works produced during the Middle Ages, roughly spanning the 5th to the 15th century in Europe. This period saw the creation of various literary texts in different languages and genres, reflecting the social, cultural, and religious contexts of the time.
Medieval literature can be categorized into several genres:
1. Religious literature: This includes liturgical texts, biblical commentaries, hagiographies (lives of saints), homilies, and devotional literature. The Latin language was predominantly used in this category, although vernacular translations and adaptations also existed.
2. Secular literature: This encompasses a wide range of texts not directly related to religion. Some popular genres include epic poetry, romance, lyric poetry, fabliaux (short, bawdy tales), and chronicles. Vernacular languages like Old English, Old French, Middle English, German, and Italian were commonly used in secular literature.
3. Legal and scholarly literature: This category includes legal texts, historical chronicles, scientific and medical treatises, encyclopedias, and philosophical works. Latin remained the primary language for these types of texts throughout the medieval period.
4. Dramatic literature: Medieval drama primarily consisted of religious plays, such as mystery plays, miracle plays, and morality plays, which were performed in public spaces or within churches during festivals and holidays. These plays often dramatized biblical stories or explored moral and ethical issues through allegory.
Medieval literature is an essential source for understanding the historical context, cultural values, and intellectual developments of the Middle Ages. It reflects the complex interplay between religious and secular influences, as well as the evolving linguistic and literary traditions during this period.
Mustard gas, also known as sulfur mustard or HS, is a chemical warfare agent that has been used in military conflicts. It is a viscous, oily liquid at room temperature with a garlic-like odor. Its chemical formula is (ClCH2CH2)2S.
Mustard gas can cause severe burns and blistering of the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract upon contact or inhalation. It can also damage the immune system and lead to serious, potentially fatal, systemic effects. The onset of symptoms may be delayed for several hours after exposure, making it difficult to recognize and treat the injury promptly.
Mustard gas is classified as a vesicant, which means it causes blistering or tissue damage upon contact with the skin or mucous membranes. It can also have long-term effects, including an increased risk of cancer and other health problems. The use of mustard gas in warfare is banned by international law under the Chemical Weapons Convention.
Glanders is a rare and serious disease caused by the bacterium Burkholderia mallei. It primarily affects horses, donkeys, and mules, but can also infect humans who come into contact with infected animals or contaminated materials. The disease is characterized by the formation of multiple abscesses in various organs, particularly the lungs, liver, spleen, and skin. In humans, glanders can cause fever, cough, chest pain, muscle aches, and pustules on the skin. It is a highly infectious disease and can be fatal if not treated promptly with appropriate antibiotics. Historically, it has been a concern in military settings due to its potential use as a biological weapon.
Bioterrorism is the intentional use of microorganisms or toxins derived from living organisms to cause disease, death, or disruption in noncombatant populations. Biological agents can be spread through the air, water, or food and may take hours to days to cause illness, depending on the agent and route of exposure. Examples of biological agents that could be used as weapons include anthrax, smallpox, plague, botulism toxin, and viruses that cause hemorrhagic fevers, such as Ebola. Bioterrorism is a form of terrorism and is considered a public health emergency because it has the potential to cause widespread illness and death, as well as social disruption and economic loss.
The medical definition of bioterrorism focuses on the use of biological agents as weapons and the public health response to such attacks. It is important to note that the majority of incidents involving the intentional release of biological agents have been limited in scope and have not resulted in widespread illness or death. However, the potential for large-scale harm makes bioterrorism a significant concern for public health officials and emergency responders.
Preparation and response to bioterrorism involve a multidisciplinary approach that includes medical professionals, public health officials, law enforcement agencies, and government organizations at the local, state, and federal levels. Preparedness efforts include developing plans and procedures for responding to a bioterrorism event, training healthcare providers and first responders in the recognition and management of biological agents, and stockpiling vaccines, medications, and other resources that may be needed during a response.
In summary, bioterrorism is the intentional use of biological agents as weapons to cause illness, death, or disruption in noncombatant populations. It is considered a public health emergency due to its potential for widespread harm and requires a multidisciplinary approach to preparedness and response.
Burkholderia mallei is a gram-negative, non-motile, rod-shaped bacterium that causes the disease glanders in horses, donkeys, and other solipeds. It can also cause severe and often fatal illness in humans who come into contact with infected animals or contaminated materials. Glanders is rare in developed countries but still occurs in parts of Asia, Africa, and Central and South America.
Human infection with Burkholderia mallei typically occurs through inhalation of infectious aerosols, direct contact with broken skin or mucous membranes, or ingestion of contaminated food or water. The bacterium can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, cough, chest pain, and pneumonia. In severe cases, it can spread to other organs, such as the skin, bones, brain, and spleen, leading to sepsis and death if left untreated.
Burkholderia mallei is highly infectious and resistant to environmental degradation, making it a potential agent of bioterrorism. It is classified as a Tier 1 select agent by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, meaning that it poses a high risk to national security and public health.
Prevention and control measures include avoiding contact with infected animals or contaminated materials, using personal protective equipment when handling suspect specimens, and implementing strict biosecurity measures in laboratories and animal facilities. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics, such as ceftazidime, meropenem, or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, for at least 3 weeks to ensure complete eradication of the bacterium.
Medical Definition:
Plague is a severe and potentially fatal infectious disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. It is primarily a disease of animals but can occasionally be transmitted to humans through flea bites, direct contact with infected animals, or inhalation of respiratory droplets from an infected person or animal.
There are three main clinical manifestations of plague: bubonic, septicemic, and pneumonic. Bubonic plague is characterized by painful, swollen lymph nodes (buboes) in the groin, armpits, or neck. Septicemic plague occurs when the bacteria spread throughout the bloodstream, causing severe sepsis and potentially leading to organ failure. Pneumonic plague is the most contagious form of the disease, involving infection of the lungs and transmission through respiratory droplets.
Plague is a zoonotic disease, meaning it primarily affects animals but can be transmitted to humans under certain conditions. The bacteria are typically found in small mammals, such as rodents, and their fleas. Plague is most commonly found in Africa, Asia, and South America, with the majority of human cases reported in Africa.
Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment can significantly improve outcomes for plague patients. Public health measures, including surveillance, vector control, and vaccination, are essential for preventing and controlling outbreaks.
Sarin is a potent and deadly nerve agent, a type of organic compound called a phosphoro-organic fluid. It is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless liquid, which is also known as GB. Sarin is a human-made chemical warfare agent that is considered a weapon of mass destruction and is banned under the Chemical Weapons Convention of 1993.
Sarin works by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which is responsible for breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the body. This leads to an overaccumulation of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junctions and synapses, causing uncontrolled muscle contractions, paralysis, respiratory failure, and ultimately death if not treated promptly.
Exposure to Sarin can occur through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion. Symptoms of exposure include runny nose, tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, blurred vision, and confusion. Immediate medical attention is required for anyone exposed to Sarin, as antidotes such as atropine and pralidoxime can be administered to counteract its effects.
Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria called Bacillus anthracis. This bacterium produces spores that can survive in the environment for many years. Anthrax can be found naturally in soil and commonly affects animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats. Humans can get infected with anthrax by handling contaminated animal products or by inhaling or coming into contact with contaminated soil, water, or vegetation.
There are three main forms of anthrax infection:
1. Cutaneous anthrax: This is the most common form and occurs when the spores enter the body through a cut or abrasion on the skin. It starts as a painless bump that eventually develops into a ulcer with a black center.
2. Inhalation anthrax (also known as wool-sorter's disease): This occurs when a person inhales anthrax spores, which can lead to severe respiratory symptoms and potentially fatal illness.
3. Gastrointestinal anthrax: This form is rare and results from consuming contaminated meat. It causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, which may be bloody.
Anthrax can be treated with antibiotics, but early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a successful outcome. Preventive measures include vaccination and avoiding contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. Anthrax is also considered a potential bioterrorism agent due to its ease of dissemination and high mortality rate if left untreated.
Phosphoric triester hydrolases are a class of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of phosphoric triesters into corresponding alcohols and phosphates. These enzymes play a crucial role in the detoxification of organophosphate pesticides and nerve agents, as well as in the metabolism of various endogenous compounds.
The term "phosphoric triester hydrolases" is often used interchangeably with "phosphotriesterases" or "organophosphorus hydrolases." These enzymes are characterized by their ability to cleave the P-O-C bond in phosphoric triesters, releasing a free alcohol and a diethyl phosphate moiety.
Phosphoric triester hydrolases have attracted significant interest due to their potential applications in bioremediation, biosensors, and therapeutics. However, it is important to note that the specificity and efficiency of these enzymes can vary widely depending on the structure and properties of the target compounds.
Soman is a chemical compound with the formula (CH3)2(C=O)N(CH2)4SH. It is a potent nerve agent, a type of organic compound that can cause death by interfering with the nervous system's ability to regulate muscle movement. Soman is an odorless, colorless liquid that evaporates slowly at room temperature and is therefore classified as a "v-type" or "volatile" nerve agent. It is considered to be one of the most toxic substances known. Exposure to soman can occur through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion, and it can cause a range of symptoms including nausea, seizures, respiratory failure, and death.
Organothiophosphorus compounds are a class of chemical compounds that contain carbon (organo-) and thiophosphorus bonds. Thiophosphorus refers to a phosphorus atom bonded to one or more sulfur atoms. These compounds have various applications, including use as plasticizers, flame retardants, insecticides (such as malathion and parathion), and nerve agents (such as sarin and VX). They can be synthesized through the reaction of organolithium or Grignard reagents with thiophosphoryl chloride. The general structure of these compounds is R-P(=S)Y, where R is an organic group, P is phosphorus, and Y is a group that determines the properties and reactivity of the compound.
Human experimentation is a branch of medical research that involves conducting experiments on human subjects. According to the World Medical Association's Declaration of Helsinki, which sets ethical standards for medical research involving human subjects, human experimentation is defined as "systematic study designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge."
Human experimentation can take many forms, including clinical trials of new drugs or medical devices, observational studies, and interventional studies. In all cases, the principles of informed consent, risk minimization, and respect for the autonomy and dignity of the research subjects must be strictly adhered to.
Human experimentation has a controversial history, with many instances of unethical practices and abuse, such as the notorious Tuskegee syphilis study in which African American men were deliberately left untreated for syphilis without their informed consent. As a result, there are strict regulations and guidelines governing human experimentation to ensure that it is conducted ethically and with the utmost respect for the rights and welfare of research subjects.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Persian Gulf Syndrome" is not a widely recognized or officially defined medical condition. The term has been used informally to describe various nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive problems, and muscle pain reported by some military personnel who served in the Persian Gulf region. However, these symptoms are common and can be caused by many different factors, so it's not clear that they are related to service in the Persian Gulf.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes "Persian Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses" as a category of unexplained illnesses that some veterans of the 1990-1991 Gulf War experience. This includes conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and functional gastrointestinal disorders, among others. But it's important to note that these are recognized diseases with specific diagnostic criteria, not a single syndrome.
If you or someone else is experiencing persistent health issues that may be related to military service, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide a thorough evaluation and help determine if the symptoms are related to service or some other cause.
"Military science" is not a term that is typically used in the field of medicine as it does not have a direct medical definition. However, military science can be generally defined as the study and practice of the principles of warfare, including strategy, tactics, logistics, and leadership. It involves the application of knowledge to plan, conduct, and analyze military operations.
In some cases, military science may intersect with medical fields such as military medicine or battlefield medicine, which involve providing medical care and support to military personnel during times of conflict or peacekeeping missions. Military medical professionals must have a strong understanding of military science in order to effectively coordinate their efforts with the overall mission objectives and to provide the best possible care for wounded soldiers in challenging environments.
Organophosphates are a group of chemicals that include insecticides, herbicides, and nerve gases. They work by inhibiting an enzyme called acetylcholinesterase, which normally breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the synapse between nerves. This leads to an overaccumulation of acetylcholine, causing overstimulation of the nervous system and resulting in a wide range of symptoms such as muscle twitching, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, confusion, and potentially death due to respiratory failure. Organophosphates are highly toxic and their use is regulated due to the risks they pose to human health and the environment.
Decontamination is the process of removing, inactivating or destroying harmful contaminants from a person, object, environment or substance. In a medical context, decontamination typically refers to the removal of pathogens, toxic chemicals, or radioactive substances from patients, equipment, or surfaces in order to prevent infection or illness.
There are different methods and techniques for decontamination depending on the type and extent of contamination. For example, mechanical cleaning (such as washing with soap and water), chemical disinfection (using antimicrobial agents), radiation sterilization (using ionizing radiation), and heat sterilization (using steam or dry heat) are some common methods used in medical settings to decontaminate surfaces, equipment, and supplies.
Decontamination is an important process in healthcare settings, such as hospitals and clinics, as well as in emergency response situations involving hazardous materials or bioterrorism incidents. Proper decontamination procedures can help prevent the spread of infectious diseases, reduce the risk of chemical or radiation exposure, and protect the health and safety of patients, healthcare workers, and the public.
Biological warfare
History of biological warfare
Ricin
Arsenic compounds
Flaccid paralysis
Carbamate
Phenyldichloroarsine
Arsenic
Native Americans in the United States
VR (nerve agent)
O-Mustard
Nerve agent
Henry Bouquet
Point State Park
James S. Ketchum
VX (nerve agent)
History of chemical warfare
Octamethylene-bis(5-dimethylcarbamoxyisoquinolinium bromide)
C01-A039
C01-A035
Allegations of Iraqi mobile weapons laboratories
CNS (chemical weapon)
203rd Military Intelligence Battalion
Methylphosphonyl difluoride
United States chemical weapons program
EA-4352
Chemical weapons in World War I
Horizontal Environmental Genetic Alteration Agents
Robert G. Darling
EA-3990
Detecting Biological Warfare Agents - Volume 11, Number 10-October 2005 - Emerging Infectious Diseases journal - CDC
CBRNE - Biological Warfare Agents: Historical Aspects of Biological Warfare Agents, Delivery, Dissemination, and Detection of...
1962-1974: Project SHAD sprayed biological and chemical warfare agents on U.S. ships - Alliance for Human Research Protection
Biological Warfare Agents | Research Articles | 19855
Examining Possible Causes of Gulf War Illness: RAND Policy Investigations and Reviews of the Scientific Literature | RAND
Biological warfare - Wikipedia
National Capabilities in Biological Warfare Agent Detection and Identification Technologies - NANObiz
These Adverse Events Linked to Improved Cancer Prognosis
Studying Circulating Tumor Cells at the Protein Level
CBRNE - Evaluation of a Biological Warfare Victim: Overview, Primary Routes of Exposure of Biological Agents, Epidemiologic...
Gene Therapies Could Treat Rare Diseases - but Cost Millions
Blood Substitutes: Overview, Characteristics of an Ideal Blood Substitute, Potential Uses
This could be the most ludicrous version of the 'toxins' gambit I've ever seen | ScienceBlogs
Anthrax mistakenly shipped worldwide: 5 things to know about the deadly bacteria | The Straits Times
The EPA National Library Catalog | EPA National Library Network | US EPA
Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act of 2009 | NIOSH | CDC
Cholinesterase Inhibitors: Literature Cited | Environmental Medicine | ATSDR
History of biological warfare - Wikipedia
Citations: Tools of Biological Warfare
Alive After The Fall Review: A Doomsday Prepper's Review and Opinion!
Yeehaw Junction, Florida - Wikipedia
NIOSHTIC-2 Search Results - Full View
A Tool to Combat Washington's Middle East Wars | Dissident Voice
Bailey Reaffirms Oath as DEVCOM CBC Director | Article | The United States Army
CDC | Case Definition: Adamsite Poisoning
Biological weapons and bioterrorism: Past, present, and future
News Releases
Information for Healthcare Providers | Q Fever | CDC
Bioterrorism5
- Accurately detecting and identifying biological warfare agents (BWAs) is the focal point for countering bioterrorism. (cdc.gov)
- The potential spectrum of bioterrorism ranges from hoaxes and actual use of agents by individuals or groups against others, to state-sponsored terrorism that employs biological warfare (BW) agents and delivery systems that can produce mass casualties. (medscape.com)
- CCHFV is designated as a biosafety level 4 pathogen (the highest level of biocontainment) and is a Category A bioterrorism/biological warfare agent. (sciencedaily.com)
- Biological warfare and bioterrorism is an unpleasant fact of 21st century life. (harvard.edu)
- Additionally, Bacillus anthracis has always been high on the list of potential agents with respect to biological warfare and bioterrorism, having been used in that context on at least two occasions. (who.int)
Germ warfare3
- Biological warfare, also known as germ warfare, is the use of biological toxins or infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, insects, and fungi with the intent to kill, harm or incapacitate humans, animals or plants as an act of war. (wikipedia.org)
- Sometimes known as "germ warfare," biological weapons involve the use of toxins or infectious agents that are biological in origin. (medicalnewstoday.com)
- Late in July it was the turn of the 1972 treaty outlawing germ warfare. (dhushara.com)
20th century3
- Before the 20th century, biological warfare took three main forms: (1) deliberate poisoning of food and water with infectious or toxic material, (2) use of microorganisms or toxins in some form of weapon system, and (3) use of biologically inoculated fabrics. (medscape.com)
- Biological warfare became more sophisticated against both animals and humans during the 20th century. (medscape.com)
- Such use is contrary to international law and has rarely taken place during formal warfare in modern history, despite the extensive preparations and stockpiling of biological agents carried out during the 20th century by most major powers (including development of strains resistant to multiple drugs). (msdmanuals.com)
Nerve Agents5
- four researchers involved in AI-based drug discovery have now found that the technology could easily be manipulated to search for toxic nerve agents. (cogwriter.com)
- A case in which nerve agents in urine are detected, as determined by CDC or a LRN laboratory that has this capacity. (cdc.gov)
- However, a confirmation test for nerve agents in environmental samples is not readily available. (cdc.gov)
- Nerve agents. (cdc.gov)
- A fluoride-regeneration approach enables biomonitoring of chemical warfare nerve agents. (spectroscopyonline.com)
Detection4
- Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Avni ÖKTEM, cofounder and Chairman of Executive Board of NANObiz Technology Inc., gave a speech on "National Capabilities in Biological Warfare Agent Detection and Identification Technologies" at the 2nd International CBRN Congress hosted by Ministry of Interior Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency. (nanobiz.com.tr)
- is the CEO of Tracense Technologies, which uses nanotechnology to develop threat detection sensors to identify explosives, biological and chemical warfare agents. (jstreet.org)
- Prompt detection of these new threats depends on careful monitoring by modern surveillance systems and a thorough understanding of trends in incidence and distribution of known infectious agents. (cdc.gov)
- Also lacking is an effective laboratory-based surveillance system for the early detection of exotic microbial agents that might be used for biological warfare or terrorist activities. (cdc.gov)
Radiological and Nuclear1
- He was the deputy joint project manager for CBRN sensors at the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Defense from 2019 to 2021. (army.mil)
Infectious2
- This research brief outlines assistance that RAND provided to the OSAGWI in investigating the health effects of eight areas of possible causes of illness: infectious diseases, pyridostigmine bromide, immunizations, wartime stress, chemical and biological warfare agents, oil well fires, depleted uranium, and pesticides. (rand.org)
- This research brief outlines RAND's investigations into the health effects of infectious diseases, pyridostigmine bromide (PB), immunizations, wartime stress, chemical warfare and biological warfare (CW/BW) agents, oil well fires, depleted uranium (DU), and pesticides. (rand.org)
Offensive3
- Offensive biological warfare in international armed conflicts is a war crime under the 1925 Geneva Protocol and several international humanitarian law treaties. (wikipedia.org)
- Accordingly, biological agents are potentially useful as strategic deterrents, in addition to their utility as offensive weapons on the battlefield. (wikipedia.org)
- Natural News ) We now have bombshell, smoking gun evidence that the CoVid-19 "Wuhan" coronavirus was specifically engineered as an offensive biological warfare weapon, designed to target to exterminate human beings. (algora.com)
Anthrax4
- During World War I, the Germans developed anthrax, glanders, cholera, and a wheat fungus for use as biological weapons. (medscape.com)
- The German-American physician Anton Dilger established a secret biological laboratory in Chevy Chase, Maryland, with the intent to grow the causative agents of anthrax and glanders. (medscape.com)
- WASHINGTON - The United States plans to produce chemical and biological agents, including a deadly new form of anthrax, as part of a 'defensive' progr-amme. (dhushara.com)
- But she said there were plans to develop agents to cause such diseases as a new and virulent strain of anthrax within the restrictions of the Biological Weapons Convention. (dhushara.com)
Weapon10
- They also developed a plague biological weapon by breeding fleas fed on plague-infected rats, and releasing millions of fleas in aerial attacks on Chinese cities. (medscape.com)
- When indexed to weapon mass and cost of development and storage, biological weapons possess destructive potential and loss of life far in excess of nuclear, chemical or conventional weapons. (wikipedia.org)
- As a tactical weapon for military use, a significant problem with biological warfare is that it would take days to be effective, and therefore might not immediately stop an opposing force. (wikipedia.org)
- Rather than invading our beaches or launching bombers, adversaries may … deploy compact and relatively cheap weapons of mass destruction-not just nuclear, but also chemical or biological, to use disease as a weapon of war. (medscape.com)
- The objective was subdivided into other tasks: determine the downwind travel of Agent TX released from the A/B 45Y-2 spray tank, estimate the yield reduction and loss of wheat crops attacked by the weapon system, study the effectiveness of killed TX as a simulant for Agent TX, and evaluate the adequacy to predict downwind dosages of Agent TX. (wikipedia.org)
- After completing this lesson, you will be familiar with: - the chronological history of chemical and biological weapon use and nuclear warfare - various countermeasures to offset the use of chemical weapons and nuclear warfare. (nato.int)
- Chronological history of chemical and biological weapon uses and countermeasures to offset the use of chemical weapons. (nato.int)
- The "smoking gun" aspects of this research were brought to light earlier today by Prof. Frances Boyle who appeared on the Alex Jones Show (2nd broadcast hour, Feb. 19th, 2020, InfoWars.com ) to reveal his findings that confirm the Wuhan coronavirus was an engineered biological weapon. (algora.com)
- Additionally, the study finds that another element of the CoVid-19 virus appears to have been assembled from the SARS coronavirus, further confirming Frances Boyle's claim that the engineered weapon is a "chimera" of multiple strains of biological weapons, including SARS, MERS and HIV. (algora.com)
- Biological-warfare agents are thought by some to be an ideal weapon for terrorists. (msdmanuals.com)
Defense5
- Project 112/ Shipboard Hazard and Defense (SHAD) Dept. of Defense tested biological and chemical warfare agents, by spraying several U.S. ships while 6,000 thousand of U.S. military personnel were aboard the ships. (ahrp.org)
- [17] The tests were unknown to local residents and officials until October 2002 when U.S. senator Bill Nelson demanded details of the tests from the U.S. Department of Defense after knowledge of the test was eventually revealed during a larger congressional inquiry of potential effects on participating veterans of chemical and biological testing. (wikipedia.org)
- Bailey has been involved in chemical biological defense as a scientist and leader, holding varied positions for more than 23 years. (army.mil)
- He served as senior strategist at the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical and Biological Defense (JPEO-CBD) from 2017 to 2019. (army.mil)
- He also included rapid vaccine development, from a concept developed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), to develop defenses against novel biological warfare agents. (health.mil)
Toxins3
- Biological warfare and chemical warfare overlap to an extent, as the use of toxins produced by some living organisms is considered under the provisions of both the BWC and the Chemical Weapons Convention. (wikipedia.org)
- Toxins and psychochemical weapons are often referred to as midspectrum agents. (wikipedia.org)
- There are numerous other instances of the use of plant toxins, venoms, and other poisonous substances to create biological weapons in antiquity. (wikipedia.org)
Threat agents2
Explosives2
- Warfare or terrorism agents are a class that includes chemicals, biological substances, radioactive materials, nuclear materials, or explosives. (cdc.gov)
- This Application Booklet summarises all relevant white papers and application notes from Metrohm on the topics corrosion, quality control of hydraulic oils, coolants, lubricants, and fuels, air analysis, water analysis, verification of explosives, analysis of chemical warfare agents, and quality control of pharmaceuticals. (metrohm.com)
Tularemia3
- The earliest documented incident of the intention to use biological weapons is recorded in Hittite texts of 1500-1200 BCE, in which victims of tularemia were driven into enemy lands, causing an epidemic. (wikipedia.org)
- Francisella tularensis is the causative agent of tularemia, a plague-like illness that affects animals and humans, and has caused large illness pandemics in the last century. (usda.gov)
- It has also been used as a biological warfare agent, and tularemia can be contracted through consumption of contaminated food and water. (usda.gov)
Antiquity2
- Attempts to use biological weapons date back to antiquity. (medscape.com)
- Rudimentary forms of biological warfare have been practiced since antiquity. (wikipedia.org)
Containment1
- While containment of biological warfare is less of a concern for certain criminal or terrorist organizations, it remains a significant concern for the military and civilian populations of virtually all nations. (wikipedia.org)
20011
- Since the attacks on the World Trade Center in 2001, the federal government has committed substantial resources to investigating biological warfare agents and treatments for such weapons. (prnewswire.com)
Pathogens1
- Apart fromthe Chemical Agents, Iraq also received various pathogens from U.S. In 1985 U.S. Centre of Disease Control sent a sample of West Nile virus to a microbiologist at the Basra University in Iraq. (pravda.ru)
Causative agent1
- After routine diagnostics failed to identify the causative agent, Zaki contacted Ron Fouchier, a leading virologist at the Erasmus Medical Center (EMC) in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, for advice. (blacklistednews.com)
Nuclear warfare1
- Biological warfare is distinct from warfare involving other types of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), including nuclear warfare, chemical warfare, and radiological warfare. (wikipedia.org)
Toxicity2
Exposure6
- Cutaneous exposure provides the least potential for significant morbidity and mortality, since intact skin provides an excellent barrier against most of these agents except mycotoxins. (medscape.com)
- Exposure via the inhalational route is the most effective mode of delivery for BW agents. (medscape.com)
- A review of nerve agent exposure for the critical care physician. (cdc.gov)
- The multiple hit hypothesis for Gulf War Illness: self-reported chemical/biological weapons exposure and mild traumatic brain injury. (cdc.gov)
- The objective of this study was to examine both self-reported mTBI and exposure to chemical/biological weapons (CBW) as a multiple or two hit model for increased risk of GWI and other chronic health conditions. (cdc.gov)
- A clinically compatible case in which a high index of suspicion (credible threat or patient history regarding location and time) exists for nerve agent or organophosphate pesticide exposure, or an epidemiologic link exists between this case and a laboratory-confirmed case. (cdc.gov)
Smallpox1
- Some biological agents (smallpox, pneumonic plague) have the capability of person-to-person transmission via aerosolized respiratory droplets. (wikipedia.org)
Plague1
- It was the Japanese who made the most use of biological weapons during World War II, as among other terrifyingly indiscriminate attacks, the Japanese Army Air Force dropped ceramic bombs full of fleas carrying the bubonic plague on Ningbo, China. (medicalnewstoday.com)
Variety of biological2
- Chemicals tested included the nerve gases VX and Sarin, toxic chemicals such as zinc cadmium sulfide and sulfur dioxide, and a variety of biological agents. (ahrp.org)
- Critical to sub-classify SRBCTs, Khan et al .6 used to measure genome-wide gene expres- .com decisions in cancer therapeutics are to microarrays to monitor the expression sion for a variety of biological samples. (lu.se)
Vaccines1
- There, he worked on vaccines against biological warfare agents. (army.mil)
19971
- Thus, by late 1997, the Iraqis were capable of transferring a few thousand liters of biological materials to new concealed sites within two or three weeks without supervision. (cro.net)
Diagnostics1
- She was an IPA at the USAMRIID assisting with DARPA programs geared to develop and test new diagnostics for biological warfare agents. (selectbiosciences.com)
Terrorist1
- The area of most concern is the use of BW agents by terrorist groups. (msdmanuals.com)
Microbiological1
- Biological warfare (BW) is the use of microbiological agents for hostile purposes. (msdmanuals.com)
Scientist1
- The NML scientist who was escorted out of the Canadian lab along with her husband, another biologist, and members of her research team is believed to be a Chinese Bio-Warfare agent Xiangguo Qiu. (blacklistednews.com)
Diseases1
- 2. The Pentagon wishes to test biological diseases for war purposes on unsuspecting populations. (educate-yourself.org)
Defensive3
- In contrast, defensive biological research for prophylactic, protective or other peaceful purposes is not prohibited by the BWC. (wikipedia.org)
- No biodefense research is purely defensive - to do the work, you're automatically engaged in the creation of biological weapons. (cogwriter.com)
- She said no agents had yet been produced in the 'defensive' pro- gramme, which had been going on in secret for at least four years. (dhushara.com)
Entail1
- The inner-liner technology would entail adsorption and decomposition of warfare agents without the release of toxic agents, and will result in a storage bag capable of being disposed of in an environmentally safe fashion. (sbir.gov)
Terrorism1
- For information on other warfare and terrorism agents, please view the the CDC Chemical Agents page . (cdc.gov)
Distinguish2
- be able to distinguish between persistent and non-persistent agents. (nato.int)
- It can be difficult to distinguish use of a biological-warfare (BW) agent from a natural outbreak of disease. (msdmanuals.com)
Scandal2
- the scandal of bad science and big business in xenotransplantation, biological weapons and many more. (i-sis.org.uk)
- The event caused a major scandal with Bio-warfare experts questioning why Canada was sending lethal viruses to China . (blacklistednews.com)
Mass casualties1
- For this to be a viable method for contamination, the agent must be introduced near the end user and is less likely to result in mass casualties. (medscape.com)
Chemical agents3
- This was the first multilateral agreement that extended prohibition of chemical agents to biological agents. (medscape.com)
- American Corporations such as Philip Petroleum, Unilever, Alcolac, Allied Signal, the American Type Culture collection and Teledyne sold dual purpose chemical agents and biological samples to Iraq. (pravda.ru)
- know the characteristics of chemical agents. (nato.int)
Clandestinely1
- These agents may be delivered clandestinely, and they have delayed effects, allowing the user to remain undetected. (msdmanuals.com)
20231
- 1 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption - Major General Edmond 'Miles' Brown administers the Oath of Office to Michael Bailey as his wife, Deborah Bailey, holds the Bible during the Assumption of Responsibility Ceremony held at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC) on May 18, 2023. (army.mil)
Living organisms1
- Because living organisms can be unpredictable and incredibly resilient, biological weapons are difficult to control, potentially devastating on a global scale, and prohibited globally under numerous treaties. (medicalnewstoday.com)
Coronavirus1
- Subsequent investigation by GreatGameIndia linked the agents to Chinese Biological Warfare Program from where the virus is suspected to have leaked causing the Wuhan Coronavirus outbreak. (blacklistednews.com)
Aspects1
- Textbook of military medicine: medical aspects of chemical and biological warfare. (cdc.gov)
Contamination1
- Agents may be introduced into buildings' heating-ventilation-air conditioning systems or via food or water contamination. (medscape.com)
History3
- The use of biological agents is not a new concept, and history is replete with examples of biological weapons use. (medscape.com)
- The following quote comes from a paper on the history of biological warfare. (medicalnewstoday.com)
- Former Army Col. (Dr.) Leopoldo "Lee" Cancio and Dale Smith, a longtime author and a professor of military medicine and history at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Maryland, mentioned advanced forms of battlefield gauze, clotting agents, and combat application tourniquets ("CAT," or "ratchet" tourniquets) as key ingredients in the rucksacks of not just medics, but all ground troops. (health.mil)
Laboratory1
- The case can be confirmed if laboratory testing was not performed because either a predominant amount of clinical and nonspecific laboratory evidence of a particular chemical was present or a 100% certainty of the etiology of the agent is known. (cdc.gov)
Incapacitate2
- Biological weapons include any organism or toxin found in nature that can be used to incapacitate, kill, or otherwise impede an adversary. (medscape.com)
- These agents are used to incapacitate or kill humans, animals, or plants as part of a war effort. (medicalnewstoday.com)
Risks1
- and nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) risks to NATO. (nato.int)
Lethal1
- These agents may be lethal or non-lethal, and may be targeted against a single individual, a group of people, or even an entire population. (wikipedia.org)
Virulent1
- BWs are devices composed of 4 major components as follows: payload (biological agent), munition (container that keeps the payload intact and virulent during delivery), delivery system (eg, missile, artillery shell, aircraft), and a dispersal mechanism. (medscape.com)
Populations1
- This feature can be undesirable, as the agent(s) may be transmitted by this mechanism to unintended populations, including neutral or even friendly forces. (wikipedia.org)
Civilian1
- A biological attack could conceivably result in large numbers of civilian casualties and cause severe disruption to economic and societal infrastructure. (wikipedia.org)
Potentially2
- A case in which a potentially exposed person is being evaluated by health-care workers or public health officials for poisoning by a particular chemical agent, but no specific credible threat exists. (cdc.gov)
- The four were asked by the Swiss Federal Institute for Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Protection to look at whether AI could be used by those with ulterior motives - and their AI came up with 40,000 potentially toxic drugs in six hours. (cogwriter.com)
Verification1
- For six year 56 countries have been negotiating a treaty that would create verification rules and international inspectors to enforce what was previously just a pious pledge not to produce biological weapons. (dhushara.com)
