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Background: Veterans of the 1990–1991 Gulf War have experienced excess health problems, most prominently the multisymptom condition Gulf War illness (GWI). The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Cooperative Studies Program #2006 "Genomics of Gulf War Illness in Veterans" project was established to address important questions concerning pathobiological and genetic aspects of GWI. The current study evaluated patterns of chronic ill health/GWI in the VA Million Veteran Program (MVP) Gulf War veteran cohort in relation to wartime exposures and key features of deployment, 27–30 years after Gulf War service. Methods: MVP participants who served in the 1990–1991 Gulf War completed the MVP Gulf War Era Survey in 2018–2020. Survey responses provided detailed information on veterans' health, Gulf War exposures, and deployment time periods and locations. Analyses determined associations of three defined GWI/ill health outcomes with Gulf War deployment characteristics and exposures. Results: The final cohort included 14,103 veterans; demographic and military characteristics of the sample were similar to the full population of U.S. 1990–1991 Gulf War veterans. Overall, a substantial number of veterans experienced chronic ill health, as indicated by three defined outcomes: 49% reported their health as fair or poor, 31% met Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for severe GWI, and 20% had been diagnosed with GWI by a healthcare provider. Health outcomes varied consistently with veterans' demographic and military characteristics, and with exposures during deployment. All outcomes were most prevalent among youngest veterans (< 50 years), Army and Marine Corps veterans, enlisted personnel (vs. officers), veterans located in Iraq and/or Kuwait for at least 7 days, and veterans who remained in theater from January/February 1991 through the summer of 1991. In multivariable models, GWI/ill health was most strongly associated with three exposures: chemical/biological warfare agents, taking pyridostigmine bromide pills, and use of skin pesticides. Conclusions: Results from this large cohort indicate that GWI/chronic ill health continues to affect a large proportion of Gulf War veterans in patterns associated with 1990-1991 Gulf War deployment and exposures. Findings establish a foundation for comprehensive evaluation of genetic factors and deployment exposures in relation to GWI risk and pathobiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Only a few studies on biological terrorism have ever been conducted empirically. Many of these focus on CBRN terrorism as a whole, rather than biological terrorism, specifically. Other accounts utilize a case- or historical analysis instead. This study serves as the most comprehensive empirical assessment of bioterrorism to date by drawing on the Profiles of Incidents involving CBRN and Non-State Actors (POICN) Database at START as well as additional databases. The databases were merged to create a database whereby both CBRN and non-CBRN cases were included for both individuals and groups. Several binary logistic regression models (1990-2016) were then executed on biological weapons pursuit. The type of actor and ideology seem to be the most important factors for predicting biological weapons pursuit, although ethnic fractionalization was also negatively correlated with biological weapons pursuit. Governance measures had variable, but negative relationships with pursuit as well. Implications and recommendations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Only a few studies on biological terrorism have ever been conducted empirically. Many of these focus on CBRN terrorism as a whole, rather than biological terrorism, specifically. Other accounts utilize a case- or historical analysis instead. This study serves as the most comprehensive empirical assessment of bioterrorism to date by drawing on the Profiles of Incidents involving CBRN and Non-State Actors (POICN) Database at START as well as additional databases. The databases were merged to create a database whereby both CBRN and non-CBRN cases were included for both individuals and groups. Several binary logistic regression models (1990-2016) were then executed on biological weapons pursuit. The type of actor and ideology seem to be the most important factors for predicting biological weapons pursuit, although ethnic fractionalization was also negatively correlated with biological weapons pursuit. Governance measures had variable, but negative relationships with pursuit as well. Implications and recommendations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological weapons, primarily dispersed as aerosols, can spread not only to the targeted area but also to adjacent regions following the movement of air driven by wind. Thus, there is a growing demand for toxin analysis because biological weapons are among the most influential and destructive. Specifically, such a technique should be hand-held, rapid, and easy to use because current methods require more time and well-trained personnel. Our study demonstrates the use of a novel lateral flow immunoassay, which has a confined structure like a double barbell in the detection area (so called c-LFA) for toxin detection such as staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB), ricinus communis (Ricin), and botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT-A). Additionally, we have explored the integration of machine learning (ML), specifically, a toxin chip boosting (TOCBoost) hybrid algorithm for improved sensitivity and specificity. Consequently, the ML powered c-LFA concurrently categorized three biological toxin types with an average accuracy as high as 95.5%. To our knowledge, the sensor proposed in this study is the first attempt to utilize ML for the assessment of toxins. The advent of the c-LFA orchestrated a paradigm shift by furnishing a versatile and robust platform for the rapid, on-site detection of various toxins, including SEB, Ricin, and BoNT-A. Our platform enables accessible and on-site toxin monitoring for non-experts and can potentially be applied to biosecurity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews the elements and infection mechanisms of bioterrorism, assess North Korea's capability for biological warfare, and propose strategies for South Korea to counter potential bioterrorist threats from the North. The four critical elements of bioterrorism include the biological agent, the weaponization of the agent, the delivery system, and the impact of weather conditions on the attack. The infection routes for biological agents in bioterrorism include inhalation, ingestion, dermal exposure, and injection. The potential agents under development could include anthrax, smallpox, plague, and botulinum toxin, which might be deployed using missiles, artillery shells, or through covert operations. Proximity to North Korea significantly increases vulnerability to biological attacks. Possible methods include contaminating water supplies, food sources, or densely populated areas. Anthrax, smallpox, plague, and botulinum toxin could theoretically be delivered using packages attached to balloons. Minimizing the impact of a bioterrorism event requires strategy that includes four key actions: detection, decision-making, distribution, and dispensation. By integrating these steps, authorities can effectively manage and mitigate the effects of a bioterrorism event. Civilian doctors play a role in the early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and management of biological agents. Educating medical professionals is crucial for preparing against potential biological warfare or bioterrorism threats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weapons of mass destruction are lethal instruments that involve nuclear explosions, radioactive, chemical, and biological materials, and any similar substances. This research addresses the extent and limits of the prohibition of possessing and using such weapons. It has been prepared according to the analytical and comparative methodologies, and its scientific material has been incorporated into an introductory chapter dedicated to definitions and two main chapters. The first chapter deals with the customary, jurisprudential, and judicial prohibition of the use of weapons of mass destruction, while the second chapter discusses the prohibition of the use of such weapons in conventions and treaties. The research has concluded, among other things, that: - The prohibition of possessing and using chemical and biological weapons is agreed upon, while there is disagreement regarding nuclear weapons, despite the fact that international law contains provisions in the convention prohibiting the use of weapons that cause unnecessary suffering. - Jurisprudence has differed on the legality of possessing biological warfare weapons within the scope of Article 2(4). - The prohibition should extend to the use of all weapons of mass destruction, regardless of their type. - A weapon prohibited under the law of armed conflict does not become lawful in light of the theory of legitimate defense. - The prohibition of such weapons is supported by many theories of international law. - These weapons cause great damage to the environment, and their use constitutes a crime of genocide and a crime against humanity. Although not explicitly included in the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, the Statute has included in Article 8(2)(b) (17, 18) war crimes (the use of poison or poisoned weapons), as well as (the use of asphyxiating, poisonous or other gases, and all analogous liquids, substances or gases). The research recommends adopting dual international criminal responsibility, as international criminal law cannot ignore the responsibility that rests on specific natural persons in connection with criminal acts committed by the state. The exceptions contained in the Rome Statute relating to the absence of international criminal responsibility should not apply in the case of the use of weapons of mass destruction. It also recommends considering the possession and use of chemical and biological weapons and the like as an international crime, especially after the entry into force of the Biological and Chemical Weapons Conventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epsilon toxin (ETX), a potential agent of biological and toxic warfare, causes the death of many ruminants and threatens human health. It is crucial to understand the toxic mechanism of such a highly lethal and rapid course toxin. In this study, we detected the effects of ETX on the proteome and phosphoproteome of MDCK cells after 10 min and 30 min. A total of 44 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and 588 differentially phosphorylated proteins (DPPs) were screened in the 10 min group, while 73 DEPs and 489 DPPs were screened in the 30 min group. ETX-induced proteins and phosphorylated proteins were mainly located in the nucleus, cytoplasm, and mitochondria, and their enrichment pathways were related to transcription and translation, virus infection, and intercellular junction. Meanwhile, the protein–protein interaction network screened out several hub proteins, including SRSF1/2/6/7/11, SF3B1/2, NOP14/56, ANLN, GTPBP4, THOC2, and RRP1B. Almost all of these proteins were present in the spliceosome pathway, indicating that the spliceosome pathway is involved in ETX-induced cell death. Next, we used RNAi lentiviruses and inhibitors of several key proteins to verify whether these proteins play a critical role. The results confirmed that SRSF1, SF3B2, and THOC2 were the key proteins involved in the cytotoxic effect of ETX. In addition, we found that the common upstream kinase of these key proteins was SRPK1, and a reduction in the level of SRPK1 could also reduce ETX-induced cell death. This result was consistent with the phosphorylated proteomics analysis. In summary, our study demonstrated that ETX induces phosphorylation of SRSF1, SF3B2, THOC2, and SRPK1 proteins on the spliceosome pathway, which inhibits normal splicing of mRNA and leads to cell death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

If a biological or harmful toxin agent is used as weapon in armed conflict or terrorist acts, that agent is classified as a biological weapon. Biological weapons, which have a long history of being used in military conflicts, have received special attention from developed states. Due to their unique characteristics, these weapons are considered a serious threat to human health and the peace and security of the international community. The danger of such weapons is greater than nuclear and chemical weapons because they can destroy tens of millions of people in a short term, and the effects can be transferred to future generations. The results of this paper, which uses a descriptive-analytical method, show that under international law, the use of biological weapons in terrorist acts and armed conflicts violates legal rules and disrupts public order. Therefore, the use of such weapons can be criminalized both as a crime against humanity and as a war crime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current age, one of the most important challenges of the international community is the phenomenon of bioterrorism, which has been used by some non-state actors in addition to states. Given the destructive effects and irreparable damage that the bioterrorist actions of non-state actors have on human life, the present article examines the legal aspects of this issue. In this regard, in the first part of the article, the concept of non-states actors and their approach to the use of biological weapons were explained. In the second part, the approach of the international law system to the use of biological weapons by non-state actors is examined, and finally in the third part, the approach of governments regarding the bioterrorist actions of non-state actors and their responsibilities in this field are explained. The findings of this article indicate that some non-state actors tend to use biological weapons to commit terrorist acts for a variety of reasons. Although several international instruments on terrorism and bioterrorism have been adopted so far, these instruments have not been able to prevent the bioterrorist activities of these groups. In addition, many governments in their domestic legal systems do not have adequate legal mechanisms to counter the bioterrorist activities of non-state actors, or for economic and political reasons are reluctant to counter the bioterrorist activities of these groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the world has witnessed the emergence and rapid spread of socially dangerous diseases, highlighting the critical need for robust ethical and legal frameworks within national biosecurity systems. This article discusses the ethical considerations and legal aspects surrounding the prevention and control of these diseases in order to devise effective strategies for their containment and mitigation. Drawing on a comprehensive review of literature, this study explores how societal norms, individual rights, and public health imperatives intersect within the context of biosecurity measures. It underscores the significance of ethical considerations to ensure fair and equitable access to preventive measures, diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines. Additionally, legal frameworks play a pivotal role in enabling the implementation of necessary interventions during disease outbreaks, such as quarantine measures, contact tracing, and the establishment of efficient surveillance systems. This study analyzes the national biological security measures in Azerbaijan and compares them to other countries to identify strategies for preserving and controlling the transmission of public health threats. The research aims to provide insights into the effectiveness of Azerbaijan's current biological security policies and highlight areas for improvement. The study includes a comprehensive review of relevant literature on biosecurity measures of Azerbaijan. The findings of this study will contribute to the global understanding of biological security practices and inform recommendations for enhancing Azerbaijan's preparedness in managing public health threats. Finally, the article emphasizes the need for international cooperation and harmonization of ethical and legal standards in addressing the global spread of socially dangerous diseases. It highlights the significance of sharing best practices and lessons learned to strengthen preparedness and response capacities across nations, facilitating a more coordinated and effective approach to prevent and control disease outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthrax is a notorious disease of public health importance caused by Bacillus anthracis. The causative agent can also be used as a biological weapon. Spores of these bacteria can sustain extreme environmental conditions and remain viable in soil for decades. Domestic and wild ruminants are highly susceptible to this pathogen, which usually presents as a peracute to acute disease. In humans, cutaneous anthrax is frequent but pulmonary and enteric anthrax are more serious. Humans, animals, and the environment are all involved, making anthrax a perfect target for a One Health approach. The environment plays a key role in disease transmission. At a time when the One Health concept is not mere slogans, collaborative efforts of medical professionals, veterinarians, and environmental scientists will be valuable for the prevention and control of this disease. In this review, we discussed the transmission dynamics of anthrax in the environment, animals, and humans, as well as One Health strategies to control and prevent anthrax. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The notion of deterrence by denial has been introduced in relation to biosecurity. The goal of deterrence by denial in biosecurity extends beyond dissuading attacks. It also encompasses the protection of citizens in the event of an attack. In this vein, it may be considered as including the elements of deterrence and safeguards in terms of the protection of complying states from the hazards of violations and evasions. In presenting a historical overview of nuclear safeguards and shedding light on the limitations of the safeguard system of the International Atomic Energy Agency, this paper delineates the distinction between safeguards and verification for deterrence. Subsequently, it examines the case of the Biological Weapons Convention in which verification is considered a crucial factor for deterrence and investigates the potential for deterrence by denial to serve as an alternative to verification in effective safeguards. It argues that the adoption of deterrence by denial in biosecurity could exert synergistic effects by rectifying the shortcomings of the verification system within the Biological Weapons Convention and providing effective safeguards without the need for coercive measures.

The article is devoted to the characteristics of key international instruments in the field of control over the transfer of dual-use goods and technologies and the specifics of their influence on the formation and development of the export control mechanism of Ukraine. Even though the foundations of international legal cooperation in the relevant field were laid by treaties in the field of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, Convention on Biological Weapons, Convention on Chemical Weapons), its regulatory core consists of acts adopted within the framework of multilateral regimes (groups) of export control (Zanger Committee, Nuclear Suppliers Group, Australian Group, Missile Technology Control Regime, Wassenaar Agreement), which, however, are not legally binding. The simplified procedure for the adoption of regulatory instruments, which define the basic principles and establish requirements for the procedure for control over the transfer of dual-use goods and technologies, as well as determine their lists, within the limits of multilateral export groups, allows for a prompt response to the challenges faced by the international community, taking into account the dynamics of scientific and technical development and hence the emergence, among other things, of new materials, equipment, software, which can potentially be used to develop the latest types of weapons of mass destruction. At the same time, the lack of appropriate regulatory flexibility lies in the fact that the effectiveness of international cooperation in the relevant field directly depends on the conscientious observance by states of the guidelines of “soft” law acts. Currently, Ukraine is a party to all treaties in the field of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and a member of key multilateral export control groups, which directly affected the specifics of the national system of control over the international transfer of dual-use goods and technologies. The national institutional and legal mechanism generally reproduces the key principles of control over the transfer of dual-use goods and technologies reflected in relevant international treaties and acts of multilateral export control groups. At the same time, the Single List of Dual-Use Goods needs to be updated in accordance with the changes in the lists of controlled goods reflected in the guidelines of multilateral export regimes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The peculiarities of the promotion of the narrative of Ukrainian biological weapons by Russian propaganda during the Russian-Ukrainian war are investigated. The impact of such propaganda on public opinion is deconstructed. Measures to counter such propaganda by non-state research organizations and non-state mass media are outlined. It was determined that in the modern world, propaganda turns the real world into a fictional world. As a form of communication, propaganda seeks to direct the reaction and/or behaviour of the subject. An important factor is that with the help of information that is promoted through certain technologies, an opinion that is important to the government is represented. Especially when this government is at war. And when the consumer of information receives a lot of information, he can not only understand the reality in which he is, but can also lose it. Therefore, at least two opposing points of view can form an information space, divide it and counterattack each other. As a result, confrontation between people will be established. In the war with Ukraine, Russia created a multi-level information space, in each of which Ukraine is accused of spreading Nazism, suppressing Russian speakers, spreading biological weapons, etc. A unique aspect of contemporary Russian propaganda is its creation of numerous narratives on diverse subjects, each consistently highlighting the presence of an enemy. And this is Ukraine. Undoubtedly, the goal of such a strategy is to justify a military invasion of the territory of Ukraine, and not only in 2022, but also in 2014. Propaganda narratives must also be thwarted by a multi-layered countermeasure, an important element of which is NGOs.

The fluorescence decays (FDs) of 27 dried vegetative bacteria, bacterial endospores, fungi, and pollens were measured and determined using a stroboscopic technique. Pulsed nanosecond LED sources, emitting light at wavelengths of 280, 340, and 460 nm, were used for the excitation of biological samples. The implicit advantages of the stroboscopic method are high sensitivity, speed of a single measurement (10–60 s), miniaturization of the device, and relatively low price compared to the typical lifetime methods. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) method was used for chemometric analysis. It was found that the excitation at 340, 460, and data merged from 340 and 460 nm effectively separate individual groups of biological substances. These findings provide evidence that fluorescence decay data may allow the classification of the biological samples, and the FDs measurement method can be complementary to the study of fluorescence spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthrax is an acute infectious zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a bacterium that is considered a potential biological warfare agent. Bacillus bacteriophages shape the composition and evolution of bacterial communities in nature and therefore have important roles in the ecosystem community. B. anthracis phages are not only used in etiological diagnostics but also have promising prospects in clinical therapeutics or for disinfection in anthrax outbreaks. In this study, two temperate B. anthracis phages, vB_BanS_A16R1 (A16R1) and vB_BanS_A16R4 (A16R4), were isolated and showed siphovirus-like morphological characteristics. Genome sequencing showed that the genomes of phages A16R1 and A16R4 are 36,569 bp and 40,059 bp in length, respectively. A16R1 belongs to the genus Wbetavirus, while A16R4 belongs to the genus Hubeivirus and is the first phage of that genus found to lyse B. anthracis. Because these two phages can comparatively specifically lyse B. anthracis, they could be used as alternative diagnostic tools for identification of B. anthracis infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abrin and ricin, both type II ribosome-inactivating proteins, are toxins of significant concern and are under international restriction by the Chemical Weapons Convention and the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention. The development of a rapid and sensitive detection method for these toxins is of the utmost importance for the first emergency response. Emerging rapid detection techniques, such as surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and lateral flow assay (LFA), have garnered attention due to their high sensitivity, good selectivity, ease of operation, low cost, and disposability. In this work, we generated stable and high-affinity nanotags, via an efficient freezing method, to serve as the capture module for SERS-LFA. We then constructed a sandwich-style lateral flow test strip using a pair of glycoproteins, asialofetuin and concanavalin A, as the core affinity recognition molecules, capable of trace measurement for both abrin and ricin. The limit of detection for abrin and ricin was 0.1 and 0.3 ng/mL, respectively. This method was applied to analyze eight spiked white powder samples, one juice sample, and three actual botanic samples, aligning well with cytotoxicity assay outcomes. It demonstrated good inter-batch and intra-batch reproducibility among the test strips, and the detection could be completed within 15 min, indicating the suitability of this SERS-LFA method for the on-site rapid detection of abrin and ricin toxins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As well as being a means to reduce international tension and promote peace, multilateral disarmament efforts support and strengthen international humanitarian law (IHL) by mitigating the impact of armed conflict. Multilateral disarmament treaties both remove types of weapons that by their nature are likely to be used in violation of IHL, and build global norms that stigmatize and delegitimize such weapons. These norms affect the behaviour even of states that have not joined the treaty concerned. These twin effects mean that over time, states become both less able and less willing to use weapons in violation of IHL. The experience with disarmament treaties such as the biological and chemical weapons conventions and the treaties banning antipersonnel landmines and cluster munitions provides useful lessons for efforts to eliminate nuclear weapons and to develop legally-binding measures to deal with autonomous weapon systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we highlight how the apparent double coverage of toxins and bioregulators by both the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC) and the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) in fact masks a regulatory gap that has left such potentially dangerous agents neglected by both the control regimes during a period of rapid advances in relevant chemical, life and associated sciences and technologies. We first review what toxins, bioregulators and other mid-spectrum agents are and why they are of such concern and then examine how they are regulated under the BTWC and CWC. This paper then examines an illustrative range of contemporary chemical and life science research and associated activities of concern drawn from case study research on China, India, Iran, Russia, Syria and the United States, and assesses how the CWC and BTWC States Parties have inadequately addressed these threats. We then examine how both the CWC and BTWC Review Conferences failed to address these long-term challenges, and we end by providing a series of recommendations for how both regimes can be strengthened in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) and the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) have made it illegal for States to develop or use certain chemical and biological weapons. However, these treaties are not all-encompassing. Many nations continue to develop and produce chemical and biological weapons. In 2002, as part of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), the Pentagon released a proposal from an Air Force lab seeking permission to develop biologically based chemicals that would significantly alter human behavior. The premise of behavior-modifying chemicals in conflict situations raises concern, primarily if this technology is developed, how should it be regulated? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genes are foundational to all organisms, yet their specific makeup is left to chance. Genome editing technologies, such as CRISPR, allow scientists to manipulate the gene and rid it of disease-causing mutations. Recent advancements have rendered current authority inefficacious in ensuring biosecurity. Nations could create "designer diseases" to infect others while protecting their own. The use and access to genome editing technologies must be controlled to restrict their use as biological weapons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rise of technology as an industry in the modern world, new innovations come with exciting benefits and dangerous effects. Bioterrorism has historically been used as an army's strongest weapon and with this rise of technology, we have seen bionanotechnology become the new focus of this type of warfare. Bionanotechnology is the combination of nanotechnology with microbiological components, and the world is unprepared to regulate it. Existing regulations and organizations such as the Nanotechnology Task Force, Biological Weapons and Toxins Conventions, and the Department of Defense are on high alert for this developing weapon, bionanotechnology poses unprecedented risks for communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Everyone wants the most murderous form of AI, the deadliest biotech or other weaponizable technology under their control —first before their opponents beat them to it. There is no scope for regulations in such a war; there is no time to apply a precautionary principle"

The recent advances in biological sciences and biotechnology have resulted in new knowledge and capabilities that challenge existing understandings of biological threats and biological weapons (BW). The purpose of the article is to evaluate scientific and engineering decisions that pose potential challenges to the biological weapons non-proliferation regime and can reduce barriers to their development, production and use. Materials and methods. The scientific articles available through the PubMed, Google Scholar and Russian Electronic Library databases were used in the research. The method of analysis is the description. The results of the research. The success of biotechnology provides impetus for experimentation with biological weapons, particularly by non-state actors such as terrorist organizations and extremist groups. Transformative changes are occurring in areas not directly related to microbiology. However, the potential for their malicious use is no less of a concern than the development, production and stockpiling of biological weapons. The transformation of the concept of «biological threat» is traced. It becomes more complex and includes elements from other fields outside of biotechnology and the traditional understanding of biological weapons. In addition to biotechnology and synthetic biology, such technologies that are directly related to the BTWC issue, may include: additive manufacturing based on 3D printing technologies; big data analysis and artificial intelligence technologies; nanotechnology and materials science, as well as biological research automation and robotics. Conclusion. Many dual-use technologies have received close attention from the scientific community and international experts, but this does not always contribute to an accurate and balanced understanding of their potential in the context of BTWC issues. The convergence of new and emerging disciplines is creating new areas of scientific knowledge that address the problem of non-proliferation of biological weapons, which requires the expert community to make a balanced assessment from the point of view of both dual use and the risk of excessive prohibition and negative impact on further scientific and technological progress.

Background: Botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) produced by Clostridium botulinum is one of the most potent known toxins. Moreover, BoNT is classified as one of the most important biological warfare agents that threatens the biosafety of the world. Currently, the approved treatment for botulism in humans is the use of polyvalent horse serum antitoxins. However, they are greatly limited because of insufficient supply and adverse reactions. Thus, treatment of human botulism requires the development of effective toxin-neutralizing antibodies. Considering their advantages, neutralizing nanobodies will play an increasing role as BoNTs therapeutics. Methods: Herein, neutralizing nanobodies binding to the heavy chain (Hc) domain of BoNT/B (BHc) were screened from a phage display library. Then, BoNT/B-specific clones were identified and fused with the human Fc fragment (hFc) to form chimeric heavy chain antibodies. Finally, the affinity, specificity, and neutralizing activity of antibodies against BoNT/B in vivo were evaluated. Results: The B5-hFc, B9-hFc and B12-hFc antibodies demonstrated high affinity for BHc in the nanomolar range. The three antibodies were proven to have potent neutralizing activity against BoNT/B in vivo. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that inhibiting toxin binding to the host receptor is an efficient strategy and the three antibodies could be used as candidates for the further development of drugs to prevent and treat botulism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today's world is facing a great evil that comes from man, from people who for various reasons entered into a fight against the rest of humanity. That evil is terrorism. It represents an organized and systematic application of violence to cause a feeling of fear and personal insecurity among other people, i.e. among citizens, to cause disorganization in the functioning of the state apparatus and to violate the authority of the state in order to achieve certain political goals. At the root of terrorism is terror. It represents a set of gross and frightening violent actions that cause a feeling of fear and insecurity in people. The most frequently applied procedures for the implementation of terror are murders, abductions of persons, diversions against public facilities - shopping centers, school facilities, roads, bridges, telecommunications devices, water installations, means of transport, military facilities and installations. To achieve their dark goals, terrorists use diversions against objects that contain hidden forces - hydroaccumulation dams, chemical factories, oil wells and nuclear power plants. Intelligence data and some developments in recent times say that they are ready for terrorist actions by polluting and infecting water sources, food, clothing, etc., polluting the human environment, causing epidemics of infectious diseases, etc. Biological warfare agents are used to cause epidemics of infectious diseases in peace and in war. They represent pathogenic microorganisms or toxins specially prepared to cause infectious diseases or intoxication of people, animals or plants for the purpose of their destruction or incapacitation in order to reduce the defensive, i.e. military efficiency of the enemy's forces and thereby create conditions for the realization of the immediate military or political objective of the party using those means. The paper provides brief reviews of pathogenic microorganisms that can be used as biological warfare agents: bacteria, viruses and rickettsiae. A special review is given to biotoxins, especially the botulinum biotoxin, which is the most dangerous and also the most suitable for use as a biological warfare agent. Due to the limited number of pages, the paper presents the basic microbiological characteristics of pathogenic microorganisms from the point of view of their possible use as biological warfare agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trauma and toxic substances are connected in several aspects. On the one hand, toxic substances can be the reason for traumatic injuries in the context of accidental or violent and criminal circumstances. Examples for the first scenario is the release of toxic gases, chemicals, and particles during house fires, and for the second scenario, the use of chemical or biological weapons in the context of terroristic activities. Toxic substances can cause or enhance severe, life-threatening trauma, as described in this review for various chemical warfare, by inducing a tissue trauma accompanied by break down of important barriers in the body, such as the blood-air or the blood-gut barriers. This in turn initiates a "vicious circle" as the contribution of inflammatory responses to the traumatic damage enhances the macro- and micro-barrier breakdown and often results in fatal outcome. The development of sophisticated methods for detection and identification of toxic substances as well as the special treatment of the intoxicated trauma patient is summarized in this review. Moreover, some highly toxic substances, such as the protein toxins from the pathogenic bacterium Clostridioides (C.) difficile, cause severe post-traumatic complications which significantly worsens the outcome of hospitalized patients, in particular in multiply injured trauma patients. Therefore, novel pharmacological options for the treatment of such patients are necessarily needed and one promising strategy might be the neutralization of the toxins that cause the disease. This review summarizes recent findings on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of toxic chemicals and bacterial toxins that contribute to barrier breakdown in the human body as wells pharmacological options for treatment, in particular in the context of intoxicated trauma patients. "trauma-toxicology" comprises concepts regrading basic research, development of novel pharmacological/therapeutic options and clinical aspects in the complex interplay and "vicious circle" of severe tissue trauma, barrier breakdown, pathogen and toxin exposure, tissue damage, and subsequent clinical complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, whether naturaly or designed in biological laboratories with strategic goals, is an alarm bell in regard to biological threats. Extensive development of biological sciences and the possibility of genetic manipulations remind us of the possibility of genocide and generational abuse, and the increasing threats of bio-terrorism intensify this concern. This demonstrates the necessity to strengthen the universal efforts for the destruction of biological weapons and their agents. The main obligations under the biological weapons prohibition system are outlined in the 1972 Convention on Prevention of Biological Weapons (BWC). But the lack of oversight by the monitoring body, as well as the lack of sufficient and independent guarantees to monitor violations of obligations, have made the effect of its function impaired and ambiguous. Identifying biological scientists, compiling codes of conduct and limiting terrorists access are among the strategies that can be made possible only in a new multilateral and comprehensive instrumentt which includes provision of an independent international monitoring body and sufficient guarantees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioterrorism is the deliberate release of viruses, bacteria, toxins, or other harmful agents to cause illness or death in people, animals, or plants. A biological weapon is useful to terrorists mainly as a method of creating mass panic and disruption to a state or a country. Bioterrorism agents are classified as categories A, B, and C. Bioterrorism imposes particularly heavy demands on the nation’s public health and health care system because ultimately it will be the public health system that will be called on to mitigate and ameliorate the consequences of a bioterrorism attack. India is the second-most populous country in the world and has a diverse demography consisting of various religions, cultures, and languages. The unique nature of India’s population makes it vulnerable to bioterrorism attacks that can result in catastrophic consequences. This review article aims to focus on the challenges of bioterrorism from Indian perspective and to outline the methods on preparedness and prevention of bioterror attacks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coxiella burnetii is a highly infectious bacterium responsible for causing Q fever, an emerging public health problem of global concern and the cause of severe economic losses in livestock farming. Many species can be asymptomatic carriers and shed this bacterium in various secretions and excreta. Humans can acquire the infection mainly through environmental contamination due to bacterial shedding of infected animals, and through tick-borne or foodborne transmissions. If this agent is aerosolized, it is considered a potential biological weapon. Advanced molecular and serological diagnostic techniques for Q fever over the last decade have made it possible to detect clinical cases and carry out population screening effectively. There needs to be more research on C. burnetii control in wildlife despite the increasing evidence that wildlife is a source of C. burnetii for both domestic animals and humans. Birds can transmit this pathogen directly or indirectly to other animals or humans, but data about the spreading of C. burnetii in avian populations still need to be available. The present work aimed to revise the literature about the involvement of wild birds in the epidemiology of Q fever in Europe. Reports of this pathogenic agent in wild birds in European countries since 2007 were considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

I examine the political significance of pseudoscience in contemporary Russia. Pseudoscience consists of theories and beliefs that pretend to be scientific but are not supported by evidence gathered and analyzed by appropriate methods. I argue that there is a mutually constitutive relationship between state authorities and some members of the pseudoscientific community in Russia. The former use pseudoscience in support of their ideological needs and propaganda efforts, while the latter utilize anti-Western rhetoric to increase their popularity and achieve official recognition. To support this claim, I describe key examples of mobilized pseudoscience and analyze their impact on the Russian narrative regarding the development of biological weapons near Russia's borders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the evolving threat of terrorism through emerging technologies, highlighting concerns about detection limitations, accessibility of weapons, and challenges in attribution. Topics discussed include the increasing difficulty in detecting nanoscale threats, accessibility of cheap drones and artificial intelligence for malicious purposes, and the potential hurdles in attributing attacks due to advancements in biometrics and augmented reality.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United States is actively reshaping parts of its national security enterprise. This article explores the underlying politics, with a specific interest in the context of biosecurity, biodefense, and bioterrorism strategy, programs, and response, as the United States responds to the most significant outbreak of an emerging infectious disease in over a century. How the implicit or tacit failure to recognize the political will and political decision-making connected to warfare and conflict for biological weapons programs in these trends is explored. Securitization of public health has been a focus of the literature over the past half century. This recent trend may represent something of an inverse: an attempt to treat national security interests as public health problems. A hypothesis is that the most significant underrecognized problem associated with COVID-19 is disinformation and the weakening of confidence in institutions, including governments, and how adversaries may exploit that blind spot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Every year, the number of potentially life-threatening pathogenic biological agents (PBAs) is rapidly growing, which are represented by viruses, bacteria, rickettsia, chlamydia, protozoa, fungi, genetically engineered constructs and modified microorganisms, prions and toxins. The use of PBAs for the purpose of destroying society, the economic resources of the country, deteriorating the quality of food and water supplies, intimidating the population, provoking internal unrest, destabilizing government, and creating economic, socio-psychological and environmental crises is nothing more than biological terrorism. The numerous international agreements, treaties and protocols that have been developed and ratified to date, limiting the production and use of weapons of mass destruction, do not guarantee the elimination of the risks of illegal acquisition and use of biologically active substances by terrorist organizations, which does not exclude the possibility of committing acts of bioterrorism. In this regard, the preservation and strengthening of administrative-legal, medical-biological, sanitary-epidemiological, veterinary and phytosanitary and other measures should form the basis of the state policy of the Russian Federation to counter the use and spread of PBAs.

Volume XV of the Journal of Biosecurity, Biosafety, and Biodefense Law has been published, featuring articles written by student staff editors from the Texas Tech University School of Law. The articles cover a range of topics related to biosecurity, biosafety, and biodefense law. They explore the potential benefits and risks of emerging technologies such as bionanotechnology, genome editing, behavior-modifying chemicals, biohacking, and artificial intelligence. The articles emphasize the need for comprehensive regulations to ensure the ethical and safe use of these technologies, as well as the protection of vulnerable communities. The journal expresses gratitude to Dr. Victoria Sutton, the founder and Faculty Advisor, for her invaluable contributions and mentorship. [Extracted from the article]

Because anthrax spores are highly lethal to humans and animals as well as potential biological warfare agents, there is a great need for rapid, sensitive, and selective quantification of dipicolinic acid (DPA) as a biomarker for anthrax spores. Herein, we prepared a novel lanthanide-doped nanoprobe by coordination of Tb3+ ions with tannic acid (TA)-coated zeolitic imidazolate frameworks-8 (ZIF-8) (ZIF-8@Tb–TA). The proposed assay was derived from the unsaturated coordination of Tb3+ ions. In the presence of DPA, Tb3+ ions could be sensitized to emit inherent luminescence due to the energy transfer after coordination with DPA. The results illustrated that ZIF-8@Tb–TA could be used as a sensitive nanoprobe for detecting DPA with a broad linear range (0 μM to 12.0 μM), and the limit of detection (LOD) was 12.3 nM. Moreover, the specific recognition ability of DPA by ZIF-8@Tb–TA was much better than that of other interfering molecules. This study proposed a new strategy to establish lanthanide-functionalized nanoprobes for highly selective and sensitive detection of DPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates how an infectious disease can cause massive casualties, destabilize governments, and garner intense media attention as countries struggle to respond effectively. Will the pandemic inspire terrorist groups to consider biological weapons, hoping to replicate these effects? This question is the latest iteration of the debate over the risk posed by bioterrorism, which is characterized by three camps: optimists, pessimists, and pragmatists. This article revisits these schools of thought in light of COVID-19 and analyzes recent developments among extremists to assess the new risk of bioterrorism. The article concludes with recommendations for policymakers to mitigate this risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial infection has always accompanied human beings, causing suffering and death while also contributing to the advancement of medical science. However, the treatment of infections has become more complex in recent times. The increasing resistance of bacterial strains to antibiotics has diminished the effectiveness of the therapeutic arsenal, making it less likely to find the appropriate empiric antibiotic option. Additionally, the development and persistence of bacterial biofilms have become more prevalent, attributed to the greater use of invasive devices that facilitate biofilm formation and the enhanced survival of chronic infection models where biofilm plays a crucial role. Bacteria within biofilms are less susceptible to antibiotics due to physical, chemical, and genetic factors. Bacteriophages, as biological weapons, can overcome both antimicrobial resistance and biofilm protection. In this review, we will analyze the scientific progress achieved in vitro to justify their clinical application. In the absence of scientific evidence, we will compile publications of clinical cases where phages have been used to treat infections related to biofilm. The scientific basis obtained in vitro and the success rate and safety observed in clinical practice should motivate the medical community to conduct clinical trials establishing a protocol for the proper use of bacteriophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]