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An interpolation method, which estimates unknown values with constrained information, is based on mathematical calculations. In this study, we addressed interpolation from an image-based perspective and expanded the use of image inpainting to estimate values at unknown points. When chemical gas is dispersed through a chemical attack or terrorism, it is possible to determine the concentration of the gas at each location by utilizing the deployed sensors. By interpolating the concentrations, we can obtain the contours of gas concentration. Accurately distinguishing the contours of a contaminated region from a map enables the optimal response to minimize damage. However, areas with an insufficient number of sensors have less accurate contours than other areas. In order to achieve more accurate contour data, an image inpainting-based method is proposed to enhance reliability by erasing and reconstructing low-accuracy areas in the contour. Partial convolution is used as the machine learning approach for image-inpainting, with the modified loss function for optimization. In order to train the model, we developed a gas diffusion simulation model and generated a gas concentration contour dataset comprising 100,000 contour images. The results of the model were compared to those of Kriging interpolation, one of the conventional spatial interpolation methods, finally demonstrating 13.21% higher accuracy. This suggests that interpolation from an image-based perspective can achieve higher accuracy than numerical interpolation on well-trained data. The proposed method was validated using gas concentration contour data from the verified gas dispersion modeling software Nuclear Biological Chemical Reporting And Modeling System (NBC_RAMS), which was developed by the Agency for Defense Development, South Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood is considered to be one of the most important materials in the global economy. Wood loses shelf life in countries with severe winters. Pentachlorophenol (PCP) was predominantly used as a wood preservative because of its efficacy in controlling wood decay. This study discussed the overall impact of PCP across various environmental matrices, including soil, plants, water, air, and humans. Pentachlorophenol is a phenol substituted with five chloro-groups. High chlorination levels and stability of PCP make it hazardous to the environment, and persistent, and it also interferes with human, aquatic, and soil microbial health. PCP is volatile; thus, it is constantly discharged into the atmosphere and ingested by the human population. Owing to its hazardous nature, it was added to the Stockholm Convention's list of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and phased out of the industry in 2023. This review has summarized PCP properties, usage, production volume, different transformation pathways, and its harmful effects on different environmental matrices such as air, water, soil, crops, and human health which have helped to outline the expected features of the new chemical compared with PCP. The improved chemical is intended to have quick degradability, fewer chlorine atoms, no aromatic structure, be non-toxic, environmentally benign, and efficient against wood deterioration while also penetrating the wood better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) aims to understand a population’s consumption habits, exposure to chemicals, and the prevalence of specific diseases or pathogens. This is achieved by the chemical or biological/genomic determination of biomarkers (e.g., excreted metabolic products), which are in urban wastewater generated by that population. WBE has been mostly linked to the determination of small molecules of human origin using liquidchromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). In this Perspective, we provide a state-of-the-art and critical evaluation of further developments in the information achieved by determining small molecules as well as the most promising analytical techniques to enlarge the information obtained. By simultaneously monitoring small and large molecules we can comprehensively trace the population’s health by their consumption of prescribed pharmaceuticals and illegal drugs, as well as by the amount of excreted macromolecule biomarkers such as peptides and proteins. Moreover, species-specific protein sequences allow us to monitor animal populations reflecting farming and slaughterhouse activities (poultry, pigs...) or pest occurrences (rats). To this end, the capability of proteomic studies using highresolution tandem mass spectrometry is highlighted and compared in the context of other advances in the broader field of high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there has been an increase in chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive incidents, often involving or specifically targeting children. These emerging threats pose a significant risk to the physical, psychological, and social wellbeing of children and can cause damaging effects on their development and growth. Children are more susceptible to the lethal effects of CBRNe agents and require increased protection, specialized intervention and medical countermeasures, and expert mental health support post-incident. The Hyogo Framework established a widely adopted international commitment to educating children about disasters, through which many nations have implemented disaster risk reduction education platforms focused on increasing their knowledge about potential hazards. However, few countries have begun to explore the benefits of introducing a comprehensive CBRNe awareness and preparedness curriculum to children. Studies have shown that experiential learning methods offer a highly engaging and immersive learning experience and increase educational outcomes. This work aims to explore the potential benefits of developing an interactive educational tool to introduce basic skills to prepare children and communities against CBRNe incidents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deterrence, preparedness, and response to evolving chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear CBRN threats are being strengthened by international communities and states. These threats require closer top-down and bottom-up cooperation at all levels in order to enable collaborative shared efforts, foster an environment for learning from one another, pool resources and expertise, and take advantage of synergies with an ultimate objective of improving institutional and collective safety and security. Improving preparedness and response necessitates closer and stronger interactions among various stakeholders, including security practitioners, researchers, policy makers, innovation providers, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and industry. In this context, forging a dynamic multidisciplinary CBRN network could be a more effective approach to promote synergies and addressing the need for stronger cooperation. A resource pooling strategy helps build a highly cooperative CBRN stakeholder community and ensures the network's long-term viability and sustainability. This study examines practical methods to ensure sustainability in pooling and sharing resources, knowledge, and best practices in the field of CBRN training and capacity building. It details how a solution-oriented strategy was created, including a generalised method for combining resources and maximising institutional and government investments. This study was conducted by combining the results of a literature review on best practices in resource pooling and sharing, determining its applicability to CBRN defence, and examining the Horizon 2020 project, European Network of CBRN Training Centres (eNOTICE), as a case study to draw real-time input from the project activities. This work proposes a novel and strategic contribution to the field of CBRN defence in the form of a practice-oriented concept and methodology, for establishing and maintaining CBRN networks at local, regional, and global levels. This top-down and bottom-up transversal strategy offers a way forward that can help CBRN-related dynamic interdisciplinary networks to establish, maintain, and develop in a sustainable way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open burning poses a significant threat to human health and the environment by releasing hazardous chemicals and exacerbating plastic pollution. Urgent action is required to address its pervasive impact and the substantial release of gaseous pollutants. Limited research has explored the demographic aspect of open burning behavior, with none specifically conducted in Kentucky. An analysis of open burning complaints reported to the Kentucky Division for Air Quality in 2015, 2019, and 2021 revealed no significant differences in reported incidents by month and county. Binary logistic regression analyses identified the urban vs rural divide as significant predictors of open burning incidents, while violations were influenced by both urban and rural factors and average household income. Unemployment rates and the percentage of individuals with less than a high school diploma did not significantly predict open burning violations. Targeted interventions at the state and local level, focusing on rural areas and economically disadvantaged communities, can effectively address and mitigate open burning issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article compares and contrasts the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) weapons programs of Al-Qaeda and Islamic State through the framework of organizational structure, typology, ideology and CBRN incidents (selected case studies). A three-step CBRN model explaining the use of CBRN weapons by both groups is proposed. This model suggests that the use of CBRN weapons is predicated on three factors: leadership at the strategic level; acquisition of material at the operational level and technical capabilities at the tactical level. It is found that the failure of both groups in developing and carrying out large-scale CBRN attacks boils down primarily to the lack of technical capabilities and the difficulties associated with acquisition of materials. It is argued that the future CBRN threat landscape will likely be dominated by the threat of small-scale, localized attacks using crude chemical or biological agents by lone actors or autonomous cells as opposed to larger-scale centrally directed attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mineral mining often results in changes to the soil environment, reducing the sustainability of the surrounding environment. Restoring the physical and chemical properties of soil in post‐tin‐mining areas on the tropical island of Belitung, Indonesia, has been a laborious process after more than 10 decades of land reclamation. We aimed to determine which parameter of the soil properties was responsible for the slow recovery process and if there were other properties that indicated more rapid changes. We measured the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soils of different periods in the post‐tin‐mining areas. We sampled soil from three areas: 0, 1, and 6 years after mining and an adjacent natural forest as a reference site. The soil water content, hydraulic conductivity, bulk density, particle distribution, mineral content, and soil microbial composition were measured in the field and analyzed in the laboratory. The soil showed a fine particle loss and despite the absence of clay, water‐holding capacity was significantly increased in the 6‐year‐old soil. Organic carbon increased by 0.2% after 6 years of reclamation. Copper, iron, manganese, and zinc in the soils fluctuated less. Minimal amounts of Pb and Cd were found. Soil bacterial communities shift with land age. Actinobacteria were dominant a few years after mining, while Proteobacteria colonized the mined area after 6 years. This study examined the more profound changes in the soil properties of tropical post‐tin‐mined land. Soil and bacterial characteristics can be used as markers to monitor the progress of land rehabilitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Food safety has always been a major concern for people, and frequent food safety incidents pose a serious threat to people's health and safety. To identify high-risk patterns in the field of food safety and assist regulatory authorities in scientifically managing food safety risks, this study aims to evaluate food safety risks from multiple dimensions and provide a scientific basis for formulating targeted food safety management measures. Methods: The risk matrix method, along with the Borda method, is used to evaluate food safety risks. Based on the constructed food safety incident database, the risk matrix method is applied for static risk assessment from seven aspects: food categories, years, provinces, incident entities, causes, pollution sources, and links, and for dynamic risk assessment in different provinces. Results: The top five food categories in risk ranking are meat and meat products, fruits and vegetables, grain and grain products, other category, and aquatic products. Food safety risks show an increasing trend year by year, with the years 2006, 2012-2015 and 2019 having higher risk rankings. The top three provinces in risk ranking are Hunan, Guangdong, and Shaanxi. The top four entities in risk ranking are restaurants, enterprises, households, and canteens. The top four causes in risk ranking are human intention, human error, mismanagement, and production and social environment. The top four pollution sources in risk ranking include chemical pollution, other pollution, biological pollution, and food additives. The top three links in risk ranking include production and processing link, catering link, and agricultural production link. Across provinces, food safety risks in the years 2012-2015 are generally higher compared to other years, with the highest number of high-risk provinces in 2014. Implication: The findings of this study have significant implications for food safety management in China. By implementing food safety risk prevention and control countermeasures proposed, China can strengthen its food safety management framework, reduce the incidence of food safety incidents, and safeguard the health and well-being of its population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Algae play a vital role in aquatic ecosystems, contributing to oxygen production and serving as a foundational component of the food chain. Environment stress and contamination can lead to harmful algal blooms, depleting oxygen levels and creating dead zones in water bodies. When exposed to contaminants such as industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, heavy metals, and synthetic nano/microparticles, algae can exhibit adverse responses, disrupting the balance of aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, environmental issues related to ecotoxicology responses of algae include the disruption of biodiversity and the loss of crucial habitats, which can lead to health issues. We reviewed the response of algae exposed to contaminants in the aquatic environments, including ecotoxicology and environmental stresses. The major points are: (1) The accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in food chains and ecosystems and their uptake is widely revealed as a major concern for environmental health and human beings. (2) Bisphenol A can negatively impact algae by inhibiting biochemical and physiological processes, in which half maximal effective concentration varies from 1.0 mg L-1 to 100 mg L-1. (3) Though the level of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in the environment is generally low, ranging from ng L-1 to mg L-1, the combined contaminant exposure leads to significantly more significant toxic effects than individual compounds. (4) An exposure level of 1000ng L is unsafe for the ecosystems, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances could lead to algal growth inhibition, e.g., damage to the photosynthetic, inhibition of deoxyribonucleic acid replication, and reactive oxygen species metabolism. (5) The ecotoxicity of chemicals to algae is influenced by chemical, biological, and physical factors, creating complex effects at the biological community level. (6) This research indicated the importance of the ecotoxicology response of algae to contaminants, emphasizing the necessity for monitoring and strategic interventions to protect the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To gain a thorough grasp of the soil quality conditions in the preservation forests along the Tarim Desert Highway, a detailed assessment of the research area's soil quality is necessary, along with the identification of any potential obstacles. This evaluation should identify any potential obstacles and provide a theoretical basis for the sustainable utilization and precise management of protection forest soils. This paper examines the protection forest along the Tarim Desert Highway as the study area. To characterize the features of the soil quality, thirteen indicators of the chemical, physical, and biological composition of the soil were examined. The principal component analysis method was used to construct the minimum dataset (MDS) for soil quality evaluation. The diagnostic model for obstacle factors was combined with the MDS to explore the soil quality characteristics and obstacle factors in the study region. The findings indicated that (1) the constructed indexes of the MDS of protection forest soil in the study area included soil ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N); quick-acting phosphorus (AvP); organic carbon (SOC); alkaline phosphatase (AP); and total salt (SS); (2) soil quality based on the MDS and the total dataset (TDS) showed a significant positive correlation (R2 = 0.748; p < 0.05), and the research region's soil quality were all in the medium and below level (100% of SQI ≤ 0.6), showing the status quo of high soil quality in the two ends of the shelterbelt forest and the tower center area, while the other areas were relatively low; (3) according to the findings of the soil barrier analysis, the two main obstacles influencing the soil quality of the shelterbelt forest at this time are NH4+-N and SOC, and that the soil quality of the shelterbelt forest could be improved by artificially increasing the inputs of nutrients and precise conservation measures, promoting the overall function of artificial protective forests on desert highways. In addition to providing a solid scientific foundation for the sustainable use and maintenance of shelterbelt forests along the Tarim Desert Highway, this study is also an invaluable resource for researching the soil quality of artificial shelterbelt forests in arid regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Zinc and potassium solubilizing Pseudomonas spp. were used as rice bioinoculants. • Zinc and potassium contents of rice plants were checked using atomic absorption spectroscopy. • All P. aurantiaca strains inoculated plants showed increase in growth parameters. • P. aurantiaca strains GS3 and GS7 significantly enhanced zinc content of the rice plants. • P. aurantiaca ARS38 successfully increased the potassium content of rice tillers. In order to overcome the damages caused by conventional farming, excessive use of chemical and synthetic fertilizers and for stimulating plant growth, Rhizomicrobiome has been a strategic yet over exploited biological tool. Among rhizospheric microbial communities, use of fluorescent pseudomonads as biocontrol agents remains prominent due to their ability to produce a variety of antimicrobial secondary metabolites. However, Pseudomonas spp. also possess great abilities of nutrient mobilization and can effectively enhance the bioavailability of inorganic zinc and potassium salts to plants. In this study, ten Pseudomonas spp. strains including P. aurantiaca (GS1, GS3, GS4, GS6, GS7, FS2, ARS38, and PBSt2), P. chlororaphis (RP4), and P. fluorescens (RS1) were evaluated for promoting growth of rice under natural climate conditions. Pot-scale experiments with zinc solubilizing P. aurantiaca GS3 and GS7 showed significant increase in dry shoot and root weights of inoculated plants as compared to un-inoculated controls. Pot experiments with potassium-solubilizing pseudomonads including P. aurantiaca PBSt2, ARS38, GS3, GS4, GS7, P. chlororaphis RP4, and P. fluorescens RS1 showed increased biomass and weight of tillers, as compared to control plants. Maximum zinc concentration was recorded for the shoots and tillers of P. aurantiaca GS3-inoculated plants. However, maximum potassium concentration in shoots, roots, and tillers of rice plants was observed for P. aurantiaca ARS38-inoculated plants. A significant increase in plant biomass and weight of tillers was attributed to increased nutrient mobilization by biofertilizing Pseudomonas spp. Successful nutrient uptake and increased grain yield of rice suggest the use of biofertilizing pseudomonads to lessen the environmental burden of chemical pesticides and enhance plant productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation agriculture and associated soil health practices potentially enhance soil resilience by improving the soil's physical, chemical, and biological properties and processes. This study assessed the impact of tillage (conventional tillage [CT] and no‐till [NT]); crop rotation: 2‐year corn (Zea mays L.)–soybean (Glycine max L.), 3‐year corn–soybean–oat (Avena sativa L.), and 4‐year corn–soybean–oat–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)]; cover crops (cover crop [CC] and no cover crop [NC]); and drainage (tile drainage [TD] and without drainage [ND]) on soil organic matter (SOM), bulk density, wet aggregate stability (WAS), and field‐saturated hydraulic conductivity (Kfs). Soil samples were collected over 2 years apart from five depths (0–10, 10–20, 20–30, 30–60, and 60–90 cm) and analyzed for SOM, bulk density, and WAS. In‐situ infiltration tests were conducted in each plot to determine field‐saturated hydraulic conductivity. This study showed that NT practice significantly increased SOM by 5.4%, WAS by 7.7%, and bulk density by 6.7% within 0–10 cm soil profile but decreased Kfs by 47.6% compared to CT through increased bulk density in the topsoil. NT increased SOM for every soil depth and, similarly, increased WAS for every depth but only statistically significant increases occurred at 0–10 cm and 60–90 cm. Further, higher crop diversity decreased bulk density and increased WAS. Nine years of CC and six years of tile drainage practices had no significant effect on SOM, bulk density, WAS, and Kfs. Core Ideas: Long‐term no‐till (NT) has a significant impact on soil physical and hydraulic properties.NT increased soil bulk density, soil organic matter (SOM), and wet aggregate stability (WAS) by 6.7%, 5.4%, and 7.7%, respectively, for 0‐ to 10‐cm depth but decreased Kfs by 47.6% within profile than conventional tillage (CT).Compaction decreased at 0–10 cm in CT but increased within the 10–60 cm soil profile.NT with more diverse rotation and cover crop (CC) practices showed limited or no positive impact on Kfs for silt clay loam.CC and tile drainage(TD) had minimal impact on SOM, bulk density, WAS, and Kfs under silt clay loam in southeastern South Dakota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the United Nations, Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) goal 6 and goal 14 seeks to ensure the sustainable management of water present over the earth for all. Urban cities saw a lot of expansion in terms of population and the number of industries established there. Water quality analysis becomes a huge requirement of today's scenario due to the impurities present in water which harms the livelihood of society. Some of the hazardous impurities like heavy metals destruct the surroundings. In this study, the removal of heavy metals from wastewater with an efficient technique i.e. Bioremediation is represented with the analysis and evaluation of results recorded in the laboratory testing. Two samples were taken from two different sites which are being analyzed with the implementation methodology represented in the present article. The inclusion of the ANOVA model for the optimization of the outcome generated is evaluated and received the P-value and F-crit value. Two algae Chlorella Minutissima & Chlorella Singularis were evaluated based on their impurity removal efficiency as well an analysis of the biological treatment method over other chemical methods has been examined. The results were analyzed and represented in the form of a table as well and the variation in the value of WQP is shown in the form of graphs. The observation shows that the variation in WQP after the integration of algae lies under the permissible limit. Alkalinity is estimated in the range of 20–40 mg/l, Hardness lies in the range of 0–60mg/l, and pH comes approximately in a range of 6.5–8. The results of the ANOVA model is also depicted in graphical form highlighting the P-value and F-crit value of different result generated. Finally, the summary of the proposed work is illustrated with the challenges faced and future recommendations have been provided. Based on the evaluation, the framework is generated for the efficient technique used for heavy metal removal i.e. Bioremediation which provides a great advancement in the efficacy of removal of heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

V-agents are exceedingly toxic nerve agents. Recently, it was highlighted that V-agents constitute a diverse subclass of compounds with most of them not extensively studied. Although chemical weapons have been banned under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), there is an increased concern for chemical terrorism. Thus, it is important to understand their properties and toxicities, especially since some of these agents are not included in the CWC list. Nonetheless, to achieve this goal, the testing of a huge number of compounds is needed. Alternatively, in silico toxicology offers a great advantage for the rapid assessment of toxic compounds. Here, various in silico tools (TEST, VEGA, pkCSM ProTox-II) were used to estimate the acute oral toxicity (LD50) of different V-agents and compare them with experimental values. These programs underestimated the toxicity of V-agents, and certain V-agents were estimated to be relatively non-toxic. TEST was also used to estimate the physical properties and found to provide good approximations for densities, surface tensions and vapor pressures but not for viscosities. Thus, attention should be paid when interpreting and estimating the toxicities of V-agents in silico, and it is necessary to conduct future detailed experiments to understand their properties and develop effective countermeasures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

End-point evaluation of stream health is essential for the quantification of water quality. To this end, many Multi-Metric Indices (MMIs) have been developed to quantify water quality. The most extensive work has occurred in North America and Europe, while other areas of the world are in development. In this study, we compared the use of relevant physical, chemical and biological parameters in MMIs to various other stream health indicators to assess water quality throughout a three-river corridor along the north central Pacific slope of Costa Rica. Analysis of the data suggested MMIs were the best indicators of water quality and, more specifically, insect MMIs were the most predicative. MMIs were also best at pinpointing anthropomorphic impact throughout the corridor. Further, less complex insect MMIs such as compilations of family diversity using Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) orders were equally as predictive as the more complex models. With a need to better understand and use citizen monitors to predict water quality in these tropical environments, less complex insect MMIs show promise as a solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amy Hay's book, "The Defoliation of America: Agent Orange Chemicals, Citizens, and Protests," explores the history of anti-toxic protest in twentieth-century U.S. history. The focus of the book is on the Agent Orange herbicides, specifically the compounds 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T, which were used as weed killers during the Vietnam War. The book is divided into three parts, each highlighting different settings and groups of protestors. Through various case studies, Hay demonstrates the impact of these herbicides on landscapes and human health, as well as the challenges faced by protestors in achieving change. The book emphasizes the importance of citizen engagement and corporate accountability in addressing toxic hazards. [Extracted from the article]

This article considers modern chemical terrorism to be one of the specific and new methods for resolving political contradictions. The acts of chemical terrorism or its threat can be used deliberately as a coercive instrument of foreign policy in the Middle East. Chemical terrorism can be used as an excuse for the open aggression against other nations and for sending regular military forces into the territory of other sovereign states. The article shows that the destabilization of the situation in the Syrian Arab Republic is caused by the financial support of the so­called «moderate opposition», by the imposition of economic sanctions against the state institutions and also by the false accusations of chemical attacks. The article presents certain facts and evidence from different reliable sources, that allow to suggest the possibility of cooperation of foreign intelligence agencies with the armed groups that were committing chemical terrorist acts. The special expert group from the Troops of Radiological, Chemical and Biological Defence of the Russian Federation has been formed for the confirmation of the alleged acts of chemical terrorism. The article presents the results of the work of this expert group that have been accepted by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW).

Bob Spencer served as senior investigating officer and a specialist senior investigating officer for terrorism for the West Midlands Police in the U.K. Almost immediately after the 7/7 attacks in London, he was made Head of Intelligence for the West Midlands CTU. West Midlands being assessed at the time to have had the highest terrorism threat in the U.K. outside the capital, Spencer was invited to head the delivery of the governments Prevent agenda within the Regional Counter Terrorism Unit, with responsibility for embedding the strategy across four regional forces. Spencer retired from the force in 2012 but continued to advise various organizations around their compliance with terrorism regulations and particularly their organizational security and preparedness. In June 2016, he was appointed the Prevent Coordinator for Walsall Council in the West Midlands, retiring from the role in 2019. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metagenomics is the study of genetic information, including the sequences and genomes of microorganisms present in an environment. Since 1998, the full-scale application of this technique to environmental chemistry has brought significant advances in the characterization of the nature and chemical composition/distribution of contaminants present in environmental matrices of contaminated and/or remediated sites. This has been critical in the selection of microorganisms and has contributed significantly to the success of this biological treatment over the years. Metagenomics has gone through different phases of development, which ranges from initial sequencing strategies to next-generation sequencing (NGS), which is a recently developed technology to obtain more robust deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) profile of microorganisms devoid of chimeric sequences which reduces the quality of metagenomic data. Therefore, the objective of this review is to evaluate the applications of metagenomics in the understanding of environmental dynamics of chemical contaminants during remediation studies. Also, this review presents the relationship between biological characteristics of microorganisms and chemical properties of chemical compounds, which forms the basis of bioremediation and could be useful in developing predictive models that could enhance remediation efficiency. In conclusion, metagenomic techniques have improved the characterisation of chemical contaminants in the environment and provides a correlation for useful prediction of the type of contaminant expected in various environmental matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Much ado has been made about the specter of unconventional weapons in the hands of militant groups. Despite the alarmism of the policy community, the pursuit of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear capabilities by non-state actors is rare. What explains why some violent non-state organizations pursue chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons while most do not? Using new data on organizational behaviors and attributes from the Big Allied and Dangerous 2 Insurgency project, we analyze 140 insurgent actors, from 1998 to 2012. We expand previous work by Asal, Ackerman & Rethemeyer by studying the phenomenon longitudinally and attending to organizational behavior rather than only to structural and environmental factors. We find that organizations that attack cultural sites are more likely to pursue and use chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons. We interpret the latter as a willingness to transgress upon accepted mores, for the sake of sensationalism and shock value, which coheres with a willingness to pursue unconventional weapons. Our results reflect that chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear pursuit and use is part of a larger strategy for some violent non-state organizations, one predicated on generating mass fear and exacting a psychological toll. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aloe ferox is an indigenous medicinal plant that is widely used for its various medicinal and pharmacological properties. Despite the medicinal importance and various applications of the species, it is surprising that little is known about the extent of geographical differences in its major chemical compounds. Also, the correlation between different geographic regions and variations in plant phytochemicals has received less attention. Aim: This study sought to investigate the presence of biologically active compounds in the leaf extracts of A. ferox from different geographical regions across South Africa. Setting: This study was set in different regions within South Africa. Methods: Phytochemical screening was performed qualitatively using established standard procedures involving chemical reagents such as hexane, chloroform and methanol and a series of reactions to determine the presence of phytocompounds of biological importance. Results: The study revealed that A. ferox leaves possess several classes of phytocompounds such as alkaloids, tannins, terpenoids, glycosides, phenolics, flavonoids, saponins and fixed oils and fats across various samples. Mucilage was absent across the samples. Conclusion: The study revealed eight classes of phytochemical compounds present on A. ferox leaves in three different geographic regions, which is consistent with the previous studies; however, further research is needed to enhance the study through qualitative research, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography analyses to validate phytochemical variations and their therapeutic effects. Contribution: This study contributes to the existing knowledge of the therapeutic Aloe genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tropical coastal ecosystems are in decline worldwide due to an increasing suite of human activities, which threaten the biodiversity and human wellbeing that these ecosystems support. One of the major drivers of decline is poor water quality from land-based activities. This review summarises the evidence of impacts to coastal ecosystems, particularly coral reefs, from sediments, nutrients, chemicals and pathogens entering coastal zones through surface and groundwater. We also assess how these pollutants affect the health of coastal human populations through: (1) enhanced transmission of infectious diseases; (2) reduced food availability and nutritional deficit from decline of fisheries associated with degraded habitat; and (3) food poisoning from consumption of contaminated seafood. We use this information to identify opportunities for holistic approaches to integrated watershed management (IWM) that target overlapping drivers of ill-health in downstream coastal ecosystems and people. We demonstrate that appropriate management requires taking a multi-sector, systems approach that accounts for socio-ecological feedbacks, with collaboration required across environmental, agricultural, public health, and water, sanitation and hygiene sectors, as well as across the land-sea interface. Finally, we provide recommendations of key actions for IWMthat can help achievemultiple sustainable development goals for both nature and people on coasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The icon is part of the ASTRA Museum Collection. The icon on glass Holy Great-Martyr Demetrius, icon from the Valea Sebeșului or Mărginimea Sibiului, dating from the second half of the 19th century, benefited from restoration interventions within the 7th edition of the Restoration Workshop organized by the ASTRA Museum from Sibiu through the ASTRA Centre for Heritage. The existing damages were caused by the passage of time, inappropriate handling and mechanical shocks. The restoration interventions performed were determined by the precarious state of preservation of this piece. Besides the chemical and biological investigations, X-ray fluorescence analyses were performed during the event. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frankincense plant is one of the most widely used groups of medicinal herbs and has been extensively used due to the biological activities it possesses. Recently, a considerable literature has developed around the theme of frankincense and its different components, alongside with numerous researches published on its historical role in curing various chronic diseases. The present review has focused on the chemical ingredients of frankincense essential oil and pharmacological activities of these components. Essential oils (EOs) are known to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects in addition to what being suggested about having activity against virus of SARC-CoV-2. These activities, which attributed to different chemical ingredients such as phenolic monoterpenes could have a protection and/or relief of some illnesses. The current study provides reference for further research in attempt to become a relevant basis of development for new remedies to combat chronic disease and viral infection such as Coronavirus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Though the possibility of terrorist groups obtaining chemical weapons and inflicting mass destruction is relatively low, the relevance of chemical agents remains high since the use of such chemical agents in causing potentially dangerous consequences remains very high. Sporadic chemical attacks and chemical disasters happen all over the world, and they cause long-lasting damages. Easy accessibility to various toxic industrial chemicals and the relatively simple know-how needed to synthesize chemical agents pose a serious threat. However, technological developments and the easy availability of information have empowered the security forces and law enforcement agencies to formulate a responsive mechanism to mitigate the ill effects of chemical disasters. Though the international and national agencies strive hard to ward off the debilitating effects of chemical agents and disasters, such efforts' capability to address the potential risks remains doubtful. This review describes the characteristics and classification of chemical agents and toxic industrial chemicals, their physicochemical properties, detection, decontamination, and response by the security agencies and first responders in addressing the threat to humanity in the form of chemical terrorism and chemical disasters.

VX is one of the chemical warfare agents that attack victims' nervous systems and ultimately lead to their death. Upon VX exposure, circulating proteins in the bloodstream can be modified with VX that may produce diagnostic VX adducts. Thus, these adducts would be key evidence for the forensic investigation against chemical warfare or terrorism. In this study, we discovered a list of potential blood protein biomarkers for VX exposure. To do so, we employed high‐resolution mass spectrometry‐based proteomics and identified 18 VX‐adducted proteins with 32 adduct sites from VX‐treated human plasma samples. Furthermore, we examined these targets using a data‐independent acquisition method and obtained eight practically detectable biomarkers. Our results may serve as a valuable resource for verifying nerve agent exposure under chemical attack. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After the Second World War, technological advancements helped to develop agriculture and meet urgent food needs. The green revolution was based on the cultivation of new high-yielding varieties, the adoption of plant protection measures, and synthetic fertilizer use. Today, agriculture is called upon to recover its productivity in environmentally friendly terms and to face challenges such as climate change and international political–military events that threaten global sufficiency in agricultural products. The objective of the study is to evaluate the function that crop-protection technologies play in ensuring the continuity of agricultural output. The research was conducted by the use of a questionnaire in a sample of 250 farmers in Northern Greece. Specifically, through descriptive and regression analysis, the roles of biological crop protection, chemical crop-protection techniques, and mechanical crop-protection techniques were explored, and it was found that they either have a positive effect or a significant relationship with sustainable agricultural productivity. In order to meet the current environmental, economic, and political challenges, the agriculture sector at the global and local level should improve and further adopt existing technologies, consolidate the use of integrated pest-management strategies, and fully introduce innovations, combined with digital transformation, into agricultural management and production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Human Review is the property of Eagora Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Cyanide is a prevalent, lethal chemical. Possible sources of exposure include products of combustion, plant material, industry, chemical warfare and terrorism. Retrospective review of UK Poisons Information Database of telephone enquiries to the National Poisons Information Service between 1st January 2008 and 31st December 2019 where cyanide poisoning was considered a possibility. Data extracted included demographics, exposure source, clinical features, Poisoning Severity Score, lactate concentration and antidotes given. A total of 1,252 cases of suspected cyanide poisoning were identified, 239 (19%) involved children under 10 years. The commonest sources of exposure were ingestion of plant material (437 cases; 35%) and smoke inhalation (399; 32%). Smoke inhalation caused the majority of severe and fatal cases (139; 71%). Clinical features associated with fatal outcomes were cardiac arrest (OR 36.4; 95% CI 14.4–92.2), hypotension (15.8; 7.0–35.9), coma (10.8; 5.6–21.0) and lactic acidosis (7.8; 4.1–14.8). 110 patients (9%) were given an antidote and 40 patients (3%) died. Lactate concentrations correlate with Poisoning Severity Score category (r = 0.6, p < 0.0001). Serum lactate <2.0 mmol/L was associated with Poisoning Severity Score None or Minor (sensitivity 76%; specificity 86%) and >11.0 mmol/L was associated with fatal outcome (sensitivity 74%; specificity 80%). 61 cases (5%) had severe carboxyhaemoglobin toxicity (COHb >30%). This was associated with a fatal outcome (OR 7.0; 95% CI 1.5-33.7) and there was positive correlation between carboxyhaemoglobin and Poisoning Severity Score, r = 0.57, p < 0.0001. Most cases of ingestion of plant material involved children under five years and resulted in no or mild symptoms. In adults smoke inhalation was associated with the most severe poisoning. The lactate cut-off values associated with each severity score calculated in this study are lower than the values used by NPIS on TOXBASE. Analytical conformation of cyanide exposure was unavailable in the majority of case, limiting the strength of these conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) events with multiple casualties are rare events, but preparedness is crucial for hospitals to respond properly. This study evaluated the preparedness and disaster planning of German hospitals for CBRN incidents., Methods: In a cross-sectional study, German hospitals with level III (highest level) emergency departments were surveyed using an online questionnaire focusing on risk assessment, infrastructure, hospital disaster planning, and preparedness for CBRN events., Results: Between June and July 2023, 50 hospitals were surveyed. 62.5% of the hospitals had a section on chemical incidents in their disaster plan. A decontamination facility was available in 29.8% of the hospitals and chemical protective suits in 46.8%. The minority of the hospitals trained the correct handling of personal protective equipment (PPE) (39.1%) regularly or had frequent CBRN drills (21.3%). Most hospitals had the infrastructure for medical isolation (93.6%)., Conclusions: The level of CBRN preparedness is heterogeneous for German hospitals. Most were well prepared for infectious patients, but only half of all hospitals had sufficient PPE for chemical incidents and only 30% had a decontamination facility available. Overall, the level of CBRN preparedness is still insufficient and needs further improvement.

This paper introduces the physical and chemical characteristics and industrial emission characteristics of CVOC, and summarizes the research results of CVOC treatment technology in recent years from the perspective of chemical method and biological method, focuses on the analysis and research on the characteristics of catalyst selection and toxicity evaluation in catalytic decomposition technology, and discusses the CVOC catalytic decomposition mechanism. Due to the low treatment efficiency of single treatment technology, this paper introduces and discusses the application of CVOC treatment integration technology, and in particular, the coupling technology of microwave photocatalytic oxidation is prospected, and the future development of CVOC treatment technology is put forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The integration of photocatalytic H2O2 synthesis with selective organic oxidation has received great attention from the scientific community in recent years. This review comprehensively summarizes the recent advancements in cooperative photoredox co‐production of H2O2 and value‐added chemicals. The associated challenges and prospects are also discussed as means of providing guidance toward future research..By Brenden Jing Su; Joel Jie Foo; Grayson Zhi Sheng Ling and Wee‐Jun OngReported by Author; Author; Author; Author [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: In disaster response, smartphone applications (or apps) are being used by the layperson, emergency first responders, and health care providers to aid in everything from incident reporting to clinical decision making. However, quality apps are often diluted by the overwhelming number of apps that exist for both the lay public and first responders in the Apple iTunes (Apple Inc.; Cupertino, California USA) and Google Play (Google LLC; Mountain View, California USA) stores. Hypothesis/Problem: A systematic review of disaster response apps was originally completed in 2015; a follow-up review was completed here to evaluate trends and explore novel apps. Methods: A search of the Apple iTunes and Google Play stores was performed using the following terms obtained from PubMed (National Center for Biotechnology Information; Bethesda, Maryland USA) Medical Subject Headings Database: Emergency Preparedness; Emergency Responders; Disaster; Disaster Planning; Disaster Medicine; Bioterrorism; Chemical Terrorism; Hazardous Materials; and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA [Washington, DC USA]). After excluding any unrelated apps, a working list of apps was formed and categorized based on topics. Apps were categorized by intended user (first responders or the public) and sub-categorized by topic for discussion. Sub-categories included News/Information, Reference/Education, Weather/Natural Disasters, Travel/Navigation, and Communication/Reunification. Results: A search of the Apple iTunes store revealed 394 unique apps and was narrowed to 342 based on relevance to the field and availability on the iPhone. A search of the Google Play store yielded 645 unique applications and was narrowed to 634 based on relevance. Of note, 49 apps appeared in both app stores using the search terms. An aggregate 927 apps from the Apple iTunes and Google Play stores were then critically reviewed by the authors. Apps were sub-categorized based on intended audience, layperson or first responder, and sorted into one of five disaster response categories. Two apps were chosen for discussion from each of the five sub-categories. The highest quality apps were determined from each group based on relevance to emergency preparedness and disaster response, rating, and number of reviews. Conclusion: After comparisons with the 2015 article, many new apps have been developed and previously described apps have been updated, highlighting that this is a constantly changing field deserving of continued analysis and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Chemical weapons attacks during the recent conflict in Syria and Iraq highlight the need to better understand the changing epidemiology of chemical weapons use, especially among non-state actors. Public health professionals and policy-makers require this data to prioritize funding, training, chemical weapons preparedness, disaster response, and recovery. The purpose of this investigation is to provide descriptive data that can be used by policy-makers and public safety officials to better prepare for these potential attacks. Methods: A five-decade descriptive retrospective review of The Global Terrorism Database, maintained by the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism, was conducted to understand trends in chemical agents, targets, and routes of exposure. We reviewed and analyzed data specific to these documented chemical attacks between 1970 and 2017. Results: 383 terror attacks involved chemical weapons over the study period. A specific agent was named in 154 incidents, while 124 incidents could be classified into traditional chemical weapons categories (eg, vesicant, choking agents). A route of exposure was identified in 242 attacks, with the most common routes of exposure being dermal-mucosal and inhalational. Caustic agents were used in the highest portion of attacks (25%) where the route of exposure was known. Explosive devices were used in 21% of attacks to deliver these chemical agents. Of particular note, private citizens and educational facilities were targeted in 25% and 12% of attacks, respectively. The average number of attacks increased from 6 per year between 1970 and 2011 to 24.9 per year between 2011 and 2017 (coinciding with the start of the Syria conflict). The most commonly utilized chemicals were chlorine (26.0%), tear gas (20.8%), and cyanide (15.6%). Blood agent incidents declined from 32.6% before the September 11, 2001 attacks to 13.6% after 2001, while nerve agent attacks fell from 9.3% to 1.2%. In contrast, choking (namely chlorine) and vesicant (mustard) agent use increased from 7% to 48.1% and from 2.3% to 6.2% of attacks, respectively. Conclusions: Chemical weapon use in global terrorism remains an increasingly common occurrence that requires better characterization. The average number of chemical terrorist attacks per year is increasing, with a large proportion resulting from the conflicts in Iraq and Syria. Choking (chlorine) and vesicant (mustard) agents have become the predominant chemical terror agent since 2001, with a decreased incidence of blood (cyanogenic) and nerve (sarin) agents. Future preparedness initiatives should focus on vulnerable targets such as private citizens and educational institutions. Improving blast injury response is essential, along with prioritizing disaster training focused on choking agents, vesicants, and caustics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article considers the impact of globalization processes in the context of the analysis of the intensification of modern terrorism, which has become especially relevant for the entire international community, as it poses a global threat to world security and has negative consequences for human civilization. It has been proven that international terrorism is one of the side effects of globalization. The processes of globalization in the modern world cover all spheres of human life, their ambiguous and contradictory impact on the development of countries, international relations, world order and the role of individual states in the world, causes significant changes in the nature and manifestations of international terrorism. It is noted that in a multidimensional and interdependent world, international terrorism is increasingly integrated into new geopolitical realities, adapts to them, and in its functioning and evolution, new features and peculiarities appear that are not inherent in this phenomenon at the time of its inception. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) serves as a repository of materiel, including medical countermeasures (MCMs), that would be used to support the national health security response to a chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear (CBRN) incident, either natural or terrorism-related. To support and advance the SNS, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) manages targeted investigatory research portfolios, such as Countermeasures Against Chemical Terrorism (CounterACT) for chemical agents, that coordinate projects covering basic research, drug discovery, and preclinical studies. Project BioShield, managed by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Agency (BARDA), guides and supports academia and industry with potential MCMs through the Food & Drug Administration's approval process and ultimately supports the acquisition of successful products into the SNS. Public health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the ever-increasing number of MCMs in the SNS present logistical and financial challenges to its maintenance. While MCMs for biological agents have been readily adopted, those for chemical agents have required sustained investments. This paper reviews the methods by which MCMs are identified and supported for inclusion in the SNS, the current status of MCMs for CBRN threats, and challenges with SNS maintenance as well as identifies persistent obstacles for MCM development and acquisition, particularly for ones focused on chemical weapons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly toxic industrial chemicals that are widely accessible, and hazardous chemicals like phosgene oxime (CX) that can be easily synthesized, pose a serious threat as potential chemical weapons. In addition, their accidental release can lead to chemical emergencies and mass casualties. CX, an urticant, or nettle agent, grouped with vesicating agents, causes instant pain, injury and systemic effects, which can lead to mortality. With faster cutaneous penetration, corrosive properties, and more potent toxicity compared to other vesicating agents, CX causes instantaneous and severe tissue damage. CX, a potential chemical terrorism threat agent, could therefore be weaponized with other chemical warfare agents to enhance their harmful effects. CX is the least studied vesicant and its acute and long-term toxic effects as well as its mechanism of action are largely unknown. This has hampered the identification of therapeutic targets and the development of effective medical countermeasures. There are only protective measures, decontamination, and supportive treatments available for reducing the toxic effects from CX exposure. This review summarizes CX toxicity, its known mechanism of action, and our current studies exploring the role of mast cell activation and associated signaling pathways in CX cutaneous exposure under the National Institutes of Health Countermeasures Against Chemical Threats program. Potential treatment options and the development of effective targeted countermeasures against CX-induced morbidity and mortality is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disasters are sudden and massive damage causing events with atmospheric, geologic, and hydrologic origins. These disasters include landslides, earthquake, floods, tsunami, volcanic eruptions, road accidents and drought. Since 2 decades, natural disasters have killed millions of people and affected the lives of at least 1 billion people, and resulted in substantial economic crises Developing countries are affected disproportionately as they lack resources, infrastructure, and disaster preparedness systems. There is a high risk of outbreak of communicable diseases after natural disasters. Disasters can also be man-made like war and terrorism. Both in war and terrorism chemical, biological or radiological agent can be used. In any of these situations, significant social, environmental and economical impact would occur. This review gives a brief outlines about both man made and natural disasters and the preventive measures taken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]