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Oliveira M, Mason-Buck G, Ballard D, Branicki W, Amorim A. Biowarfare, bioterrorism and biocrime: A historical overview on microbial harmful applications. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 314:110366. [PMID: 32683271 PMCID: PMC7305902 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2020.110366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Microbial Forensics is a field that continues to grow in interest and application among the forensic community. This review, divided into two sections, covers several topics associated with this new field. The first section presents a historic overview concerning the use of microorganisms (or its product, i.e. toxins) as harmful biological agents in the context of biological warfare (biowarfare), bioterrorism, and biocrime. Each case is illustrated with the examination of case reports that span from prehistory to the present day. The second part of the manuscript is devoted to the role of MF and highlights the necessity to prepare for the pressing threat of the harmful use of biological agents as weapons. Preventative actions, developments within the field to ensure a timely and effective response and are discussed herein.
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MESH Headings
- Bacterial Infections
- Biological Warfare/history
- Bioterrorism/history
- Crime/history
- Forensic Sciences
- HIV Infections
- High-Throughput Screening Assays
- History, 15th Century
- History, 16th Century
- History, 17th Century
- History, 18th Century
- History, 19th Century
- History, 20th Century
- History, 21st Century
- History, Ancient
- History, Medieval
- Humans
- Machine Learning
- Microbiological Techniques
- Toxins, Biological/adverse effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Oliveira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Ipatimup - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | | | - David Ballard
- King's Forensics, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Wojciech Branicki
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology of the Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - António Amorim
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Ipatimup - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Paudyal N, Pan H, Liao X, Zhang X, Li X, Fang W, Yue M. A Meta-Analysis of Major Foodborne Pathogens in Chinese Food Commodities Between 2006 and 2016. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2019; 15:187-197. [PMID: 29652195 DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2017.2417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Prevalence of pathogenic bacteria in food commodities in China have been reported in numerous publications over time. However, the results are scattered and varied. To calculate a robust point estimate with a higher statistical power, we applied meta-analytic approach for investigating the prevalence of common foodborne pathogens in major food items in China. Data, on prevalence of bacteria in various food commodities were extracted and analyzed from 361 (132 English and 229 Chinese) publications. Prevalence of eight most frequently reported pathogens on six broad food categories was used for pooled and subgroup meta-analysis by DerSimonian-Laird method in random-effects model. The estimated overall prevalence of pathogens in the foods was 8.5% (95% CI 8.2-8.7). The highest prevalence, irrespective of the pathogen type, was in the aquatic produce at 12.8% (12.0-13.5), while the least was in the vegetables at 3.0% (2.6-3.4). Among the pathogens, the most prevalent was Vibrio at 21.3% (19.6-23.1), whereas the least was pathogenic Escherichia coli at 4.3% (3.3-5.2). The major food pathogens in Chinese foods in decreasing order of prevalence were Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Campylobacter, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Enterobacter, Listeria monocytogenes, and pathogenic E. coli. Presence of these organisms in foods equates the risk of microbiological food safety in China with other developed countries rather than the developing countries. This justifies the need of novel perspectives for formulating policies on microbiological food safety and risk mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narayan Paudyal
- 1 Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University & Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hang Pan
- 1 Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University & Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiayi Liao
- 1 Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University & Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xian Zhang
- 2 College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Zhejiang Agricultural and Forestry University , Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoliang Li
- 1 Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University & Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weihuan Fang
- 1 Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University & Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Hangzhou, China .,2 College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Zhejiang Agricultural and Forestry University , Hangzhou, China
| | - Min Yue
- 1 Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University & Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Thelaus J, Lindberg A, Thisted Lambertz S, Byström M, Forsman M, Lindmark H, Knutsson R, Båverud V, Bråve A, Jureen P, Lundin Zumpe A, Melefors Ö. Network Experiences from a Cross-Sector Biosafety Level-3 Laboratory Collaboration: A Swedish Forum for Biopreparedness Diagnostics. Health Secur 2017; 15:384-391. [PMID: 28805472 PMCID: PMC5576262 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2016.0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Swedish Forum for Biopreparedness Diagnostics (FBD) is a network that fosters collaboration among the 4 agencies with responsibility for the laboratory diagnostics of high-consequence pathogens, covering animal health and feed safety, food safety, public health and biodefense, and security. The aim of the network is to strengthen capabilities and capacities for diagnostics at the national biosafety level-3 (BSL-3) laboratories to improve Sweden's biopreparedness, in line with recommendations from the EU and WHO. Since forming in 2007, the FBD network has contributed to the harmonization of diagnostic methods, equipment, quality assurance protocols, and biosafety practices among the national BSL-3 laboratories. Lessons learned from the network include: (1) conducting joint projects with activities such as method development and validation, ring trials, exercises, and audits has helped to build trust and improve communication among participating agencies; (2) rotating the presidency of the network steering committee has fostered trust and commitment from all agencies involved; and (3) planning for the implementation of project outcomes is important to maintain gained competencies in the agencies over time. Contacts have now been established with national agencies of the other Nordic countries, with an aim to expanding the collaboration, broadening the network, finding synergies in new areas, strengthening the ability to share resources, and consolidating long-term financing in the context of harmonized European biopreparedness. The Swedish Forum for Biopreparedness Diagnostics (FBD) is a network that fosters collaboration among the 4 agencies with responsibility for the laboratory diagnostics of high-consequence pathogens, covering animal health and feed safety, food safety, public health and biodefense, and security.
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4
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Paudyal N, Anihouvi V, Hounhouigan J, Matsheka MI, Sekwati-Monang B, Amoa-Awua W, Atter A, Ackah NB, Mbugua S, Asagbra A, Abdelgadir W, Nakavuma J, Jakobsen M, Fang W. Prevalence of foodborne pathogens in food from selected African countries - A meta-analysis. Int J Food Microbiol 2017; 249:35-43. [PMID: 28271855 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2017.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Revised: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/04/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Food safety information in the African region is insufficient and fragmented due to lack of surveillance, documentation and reporting, thereby resulting in inefficient utilization of resources, duplication of activities, and lack of synergy among the countries of the region. This paper reviews the prevalence of foodborne pathogens in seven African countries (Benin, Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Sudan and Uganda) from papers in regional or international journals published between January 2000 and December 2015. One hundred and sixteen publications that dealt with food microbiology were reviewed for general analysis, while 66 papers on contamination of pathogenic bacteria were used for meta-analysis of prevalence. The food items were split into two categories: raw foods and ready-to-eat (RTE) foods (including street food and beverages) for meta-analysis. Majority of the reviewed studies (67.2%, 78/116) dealt with food of animal origin: 38.8% for meat and eggs, 17.2% for dairy products and 11.2% for aquatic products. Only 8.6% examined foods of plant origin (fruits and vegetables). The remaining 24.1% was the composite RTE food and beverages. Enterobacteriaceae, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes were the most frequently reported organisms in those studies. Although the data were highly heterogeneous, a striking feature is high prevalence of the major pathogens in RTE foods, almost as high as in raw foods. E. coli averaged at 37.6% in raw foods and 31.6% in RTE foods. The corresponding prevalence for Salmonella was 19.9% vs 21.7%; S. aureus, 27.8% vs 25.1% and L. monocytogenes, 19.5% vs 6.7%. The average prevalence of foodborne pathogens in these countries was 34.2% (29.0-39.3%). Differences in food types as well as non-uniform protocols for sampling and identification might have contributed to high heterogeneity (I2 >97%) although some high prevalence data could be factual with extensive varieties of raw and RTE foods. Need for improved hygienic practices in handling of raw or RTE foods are suggested. Implementation of surveillance programs that use uniform laboratory protocols across the region could give homogeneous results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narayan Paudyal
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Victor Anihouvi
- Faculty of Agronomic Science, University of Abomey-Calavi, Jerico, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Joseph Hounhouigan
- Faculty of Agronomic Science, University of Abomey-Calavi, Jerico, Cotonou, Benin
| | | | | | - Wisdom Amoa-Awua
- Food Research Institute, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Accra, Ghana
| | - Amy Atter
- Food Research Institute, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Accra, Ghana
| | - Nina Bernice Ackah
- Food Research Institute, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Accra, Ghana
| | - Samuel Mbugua
- Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Technology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Agnes Asagbra
- Biotechnology Department of the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi, Nigeria
| | | | - Jesca Nakavuma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Mogens Jakobsen
- Department of Food Science, University of Copenhagen, 1017 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Weihuan Fang
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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Gronvall G, Boddie C, Knutsson R, Colby M. One health security: an important component of the global health security agenda. Biosecur Bioterror 2015; 12:221-4. [PMID: 25254909 DOI: 10.1089/bsp.2014.0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) will require not only a "One Health" approach to counter natural disease threats against humans, animals, and the environment, but also a security focus to counter deliberate threats to human, animal, and agricultural health and to nations' economies. We have termed this merged approach "One Health Security." It will require the integration of professionals with expertise in security, law enforcement, and intelligence to join the veterinary, agricultural, environmental, and human health experts essential to One Health and the GHSA. Working across such different professions, which occasionally have conflicting aims and different professional cultures, poses multiple challenges, but a multidisciplinary and multisectoral approach is necessary to prevent disease threats; detect them as early as possible (when responses are likely to be most effective); and, in the case of deliberate threats, find who may be responsible. This article describes 2 project areas that exemplify One Health Security that were presented at a workshop in January 2014: the US government and private industry efforts to reduce vulnerabilities to foreign animal diseases, especially foot-and-mouth disease; and AniBioThreat, an EU project to counter deliberate threats to agriculture by raising awareness and implementing prevention and response policies and practices.
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Hansen T, Skånseng B, Hoorfar J, Löfström C. Evaluation of direct 16S rDNA sequencing as a metagenomics-based approach to screening bacteria in bottled water. Biosecur Bioterror 2014; 11 Suppl 1:S158-65. [PMID: 23971801 DOI: 10.1089/bsp.2012.0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Deliberate or accidental contamination of food, feed, and water supplies poses a threat to human health worldwide. A rapid and sensitive detection technique that could replace the current labor-intensive and time-consuming culture-based methods is highly desirable. In addition to species-specific assays, such as PCR, there is a need for generic methods to screen for unknown pathogenic microorganisms in samples. This work presents a metagenomics-based direct-sequencing approach for detecting unknown microorganisms, using Bacillus cereus (as a model organism for B. anthracis) in bottled water as an example. Total DNA extraction and 16S rDNA gene sequencing were used in combination with principle component analysis and multicurve resolution to study detection level and possibility for identification. Results showed a detection level of 10(5) to 10(6) CFU/L. Using this method, it was possible to separate 2 B. cereus strains by the principal component plot, despite the close sequence resemblance. A linear correlation between the artificial contamination level and the relative amount of the Bacillus artificial contaminant in the metagenome was observed, and a relative amount value above 0.5 confirmed the presence of Bacillus. The analysis also revealed that background flora in the bottled water varied between the different water types that were included in the study. This method has the potential to be adapted to other biological matrices and bacterial pathogens for fast screening of unknown bacterial threats in outbreak situations.
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Hedman J, Knutsson R, Ansell R, Rådström P, Rasmusson B. Pre-PCR processing in bioterrorism preparedness: improved diagnostic capabilities for laboratory response networks. Biosecur Bioterror 2014; 11 Suppl 1:S87-101. [PMID: 23971826 DOI: 10.1089/bsp.2012.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Diagnostic DNA analysis using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has become a valuable tool for rapid detection of biothreat agents. However, analysis is often challenging because of the limited size, quality, and purity of the biological target. Pre-PCR processing is an integrated concept in which the issues of analytical limit of detection and simplicity for automation are addressed in all steps leading up to PCR amplification--that is, sampling, sample treatment, and the chemical composition of PCR. The sampling method should maximize target uptake and minimize uptake of extraneous substances that could impair the analysis--so-called PCR inhibitors. In sample treatment, there is a trade-off between yield and purity, as extensive purification leads to DNA loss. A cornerstone of pre-PCR processing is to apply DNA polymerase-buffer systems that are tolerant to specific sample impurities, thereby lowering the need for expensive purification steps and maximizing DNA recovery. Improved awareness among Laboratory Response Networks (LRNs) regarding pre-PCR processing is important, as ineffective sample processing leads to increased cost and possibly false-negative or ambiguous results, hindering the decision-making process in a bioterrorism crisis. This article covers the nature and mechanisms of PCR-inhibitory substances relevant for agroterrorism and bioterrorism preparedness, methods for quality control of PCR reactions, and applications of pre-PCR processing to optimize and simplify the analysis of various biothreat agents. Knowledge about pre-PCR processing will improve diagnostic capabilities of LRNs involved in the response to bioterrorism incidents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Hedman
- Johannes Hedman, PhD, is employed as a specialist at the Swedish National Laboratory of Forensic Science (SKL) and holds a research position at Applied Microbiology, Lund University. Rickard Knutsson, PhD, is Director of Security Department, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden . Ricky Ansell, PhD, is employed as forensic advisor and senior reporting officer at the Swedish National Laboratory of Forensic Science (SKL). Birgitta Rasmusson, PhD, is employed as research director at the Swedish National Laboratory of Forensic Science (SKL) and holds a position as adjunct professor at Applied Microbiology, Lund University. Peter Rådström, PhD, is employed as professor Applied Microbiology, Lund University
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Keremidis H, Appel B, Menrath A, Tomuzia K, Normark M, Roffey R, Knutsson R. Historical perspective on agroterrorism: lessons learned from 1945 to 2012. Biosecur Bioterror 2014; 11 Suppl 1:S17-24. [PMID: 23971803 DOI: 10.1089/bsp.2012.0080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
This article presents a historical perspective on agroterrorism cases from 1945 until 2012. The threat groups and perpetrators associated with bio- and agroterrorism are clustered into several groups: apocalyptic sects, lone wolves, political groups, and religious groups. We used open-source information, and 4 biological agroterrorism cases are described: (1) in 1952, Mau Mau poisoned cattle in Kenya by using a plant toxin from the African milk bush plant; (2) in 1985, the USDA claimed that Mexican contract workers were involved in deliberately spreading screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) among livestock; (3) in 2000, Palestinian media reported that Israeli settlers released sewer water into Palestinian agricultural fields; and (4) in 2011, a person was sentenced to prison after threatening US and UK livestock with the deliberate spread of foot-and-mouth disease virus. All 4 cases can be assigned to political groups. These cases have not attracted much attention in literature nor in the public media, and the credibility of the sources of information varies. We concluded that agroterrorism has not been a problem during the period studied. Lessons learned from the few cases have generated awareness about the fact that nontypical biological weapons and non-high-risk agents, such as African milk bush, screwworm, and sewer water, have been used by attackers to influence local decision makers. This review will be useful in improving future preparedness planning and developing countermeasures.
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9
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Rapid Methods for Quality Assurance of Foods: the Next Decade with Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-Based Food Monitoring. FOOD ANAL METHOD 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s12161-014-9915-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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10
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Sjöberg E, Barker GC, Landgren J, Griberg I, Skiby JE, Tubbin A, von Stapelmohr A, Härenstam M, Jansson M, Knutsson R. Social Media and Its Dual Use in Biopreparedness: Communication and Visualization Tools in an Animal Bioterrorism Incident. Biosecur Bioterror 2013; 11 Suppl 1:S264-75. [DOI: 10.1089/bsp.2013.0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Sjöberg
- Elisabeth Sjöberg is Communications Officer, Department of Security, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden. Gary C. Barker, PhD, is Principal Scientist, Institute of Food Research, Gut Health and Food Safety, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, United Kingdom. Jonas Landgren, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Head of Division Interaction Design, Chalmers University of Technology and Gothenburg University, Sweden. Isaac Griberg is Social Media Officer, International Committee of the Red Cross
| | - Gary C. Barker
- Elisabeth Sjöberg is Communications Officer, Department of Security, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden. Gary C. Barker, PhD, is Principal Scientist, Institute of Food Research, Gut Health and Food Safety, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, United Kingdom. Jonas Landgren, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Head of Division Interaction Design, Chalmers University of Technology and Gothenburg University, Sweden. Isaac Griberg is Social Media Officer, International Committee of the Red Cross
| | - Jonas Landgren
- Elisabeth Sjöberg is Communications Officer, Department of Security, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden. Gary C. Barker, PhD, is Principal Scientist, Institute of Food Research, Gut Health and Food Safety, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, United Kingdom. Jonas Landgren, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Head of Division Interaction Design, Chalmers University of Technology and Gothenburg University, Sweden. Isaac Griberg is Social Media Officer, International Committee of the Red Cross
| | - Isaac Griberg
- Elisabeth Sjöberg is Communications Officer, Department of Security, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden. Gary C. Barker, PhD, is Principal Scientist, Institute of Food Research, Gut Health and Food Safety, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, United Kingdom. Jonas Landgren, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Head of Division Interaction Design, Chalmers University of Technology and Gothenburg University, Sweden. Isaac Griberg is Social Media Officer, International Committee of the Red Cross
| | - Jeffrey E. Skiby
- Elisabeth Sjöberg is Communications Officer, Department of Security, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden. Gary C. Barker, PhD, is Principal Scientist, Institute of Food Research, Gut Health and Food Safety, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, United Kingdom. Jonas Landgren, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Head of Division Interaction Design, Chalmers University of Technology and Gothenburg University, Sweden. Isaac Griberg is Social Media Officer, International Committee of the Red Cross
| | - Anna Tubbin
- Elisabeth Sjöberg is Communications Officer, Department of Security, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden. Gary C. Barker, PhD, is Principal Scientist, Institute of Food Research, Gut Health and Food Safety, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, United Kingdom. Jonas Landgren, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Head of Division Interaction Design, Chalmers University of Technology and Gothenburg University, Sweden. Isaac Griberg is Social Media Officer, International Committee of the Red Cross
| | - Anne von Stapelmohr
- Elisabeth Sjöberg is Communications Officer, Department of Security, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden. Gary C. Barker, PhD, is Principal Scientist, Institute of Food Research, Gut Health and Food Safety, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, United Kingdom. Jonas Landgren, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Head of Division Interaction Design, Chalmers University of Technology and Gothenburg University, Sweden. Isaac Griberg is Social Media Officer, International Committee of the Red Cross
| | - Malin Härenstam
- Elisabeth Sjöberg is Communications Officer, Department of Security, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden. Gary C. Barker, PhD, is Principal Scientist, Institute of Food Research, Gut Health and Food Safety, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, United Kingdom. Jonas Landgren, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Head of Division Interaction Design, Chalmers University of Technology and Gothenburg University, Sweden. Isaac Griberg is Social Media Officer, International Committee of the Red Cross
| | - Mikael Jansson
- Elisabeth Sjöberg is Communications Officer, Department of Security, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden. Gary C. Barker, PhD, is Principal Scientist, Institute of Food Research, Gut Health and Food Safety, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, United Kingdom. Jonas Landgren, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Head of Division Interaction Design, Chalmers University of Technology and Gothenburg University, Sweden. Isaac Griberg is Social Media Officer, International Committee of the Red Cross
| | - Rickard Knutsson
- Elisabeth Sjöberg is Communications Officer, Department of Security, National Veterinary Institute, Uppsala, Sweden. Gary C. Barker, PhD, is Principal Scientist, Institute of Food Research, Gut Health and Food Safety, Norwich Research Park, Colney, Norwich, United Kingdom. Jonas Landgren, PhD, is Assistant Professor, Head of Division Interaction Design, Chalmers University of Technology and Gothenburg University, Sweden. Isaac Griberg is Social Media Officer, International Committee of the Red Cross
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11
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Andersson MG, Tomuzia K, Löfström C, Appel B, Bano L, Keremidis H, Knutsson R, Leijon M, Lövgren SE, De Medici D, Menrath A, van Rotterdam BJ, Wisselink HJ, Barker GC. Separated by a common language: awareness of term usage differences between languages and disciplines in biopreparedness. Biosecur Bioterror 2013; 11 Suppl 1:S276-85. [PMID: 23971818 PMCID: PMC3752503 DOI: 10.1089/bsp.2012.0083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/07/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Preparedness for bioterrorism is based on communication between people in organizations who are educated and trained in several disciplines, including law enforcement, health, and science. Various backgrounds, cultures, and vocabularies generate difficulties in understanding and interpretating terms and concepts, which may impair communication. This is especially true in emergency situations, in which the need for clarity and consistency is vital. The EU project AniBioThreat initiated methods and made a rough estimate of the terms and concepts that are crucial for an incident, and a pilot database with key terms and definitions has been constructed. Analysis of collected terms and sources has shown that many of the participating organizations use various international standards in their area of expertise. The same term often represents different concepts in the standards from different sectors, or, alternatively, different terms were used to represent the same or similar concepts. The use of conflicting terminology can be problematic for decision makers and communicators in planning and prevention or when handling an incident. Since the CBRN area has roots in multiple disciplines, each with its own evolving terminology, it may not be realistic to achieve unequivocal communication through a standardized vocabulary and joint definitions for words from common language. We suggest that a communication strategy should include awareness of alternative definitions and ontologies and the ability to talk and write without relying on the implicit knowledge underlying specialized jargon. Consequently, cross-disciplinary communication skills should be part of training of personnel in the CBRN field. In addition, a searchable repository of terms and definitions from relevant organizations and authorities would be a valuable addition to existing glossaries for improving awareness concerning bioterrorism prevention planning.
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12
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Thomas M, Shields M, Hahn K, Janzen T, Goji N, Amoako K. Evaluation of DNA extraction methods for Bacillus anthracis
spores isolated from spiked food samples. J Appl Microbiol 2013; 115:156-62. [DOI: 10.1111/jam.12206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2012] [Revised: 02/18/2013] [Accepted: 03/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- M.C. Thomas
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency; National Centers for Animal Disease; Lethbridge Laboratory; Lethbridge AB Canada
| | - M.J. Shields
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency; National Centers for Animal Disease; Lethbridge Laboratory; Lethbridge AB Canada
| | - K.R. Hahn
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency; National Centers for Animal Disease; Lethbridge Laboratory; Lethbridge AB Canada
| | - T.W. Janzen
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency; National Centers for Animal Disease; Lethbridge Laboratory; Lethbridge AB Canada
| | - N. Goji
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency; National Centers for Animal Disease; Lethbridge Laboratory; Lethbridge AB Canada
| | - K.K. Amoako
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency; National Centers for Animal Disease; Lethbridge Laboratory; Lethbridge AB Canada
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13
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Böhnel H, Gessler F. Presence of Clostridium botulinum
and botulinum toxin in milk and udder tissue of dairy cows with suspected botulism. Vet Rec 2013; 172:397. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.100418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H. Böhnel
- Department of Microbiology; Miprolab mikrobiologische Diagnostik GmbH; Marie-Curie-Str. 7 Göttingen 37079 Germany
| | - F. Gessler
- Department of Microbiology; Miprolab mikrobiologische Diagnostik GmbH; Marie-Curie-Str. 7 Göttingen 37079 Germany
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Mehle N, Ravnikar M. Plant viruses in aqueous environment - survival, water mediated transmission and detection. WATER RESEARCH 2012; 46:4902-17. [PMID: 22871317 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2012.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2012] [Revised: 07/12/2012] [Accepted: 07/15/2012] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The presence of plant viruses outside their plant host or insect vectors has not been studied intensively. This is due, in part, to the lack of effective detection methods that would enable their detection in difficult matrixes and in low titres, and support the search for unknown viruses. Recently, new and sensitive methods for detecting viruses have resulted in a deeper insight into plant virus movement through, and transmission between, plants. In this review, we have focused on plant viruses found in environmental waters and their detection. Infectious plant pathogenic viruses from at least 7 different genera have been found in aqueous environment. The majority of the plant pathogenic viruses so far recovered from environmental waters are very stable, they can infect plants via the roots without the aid of a vector and often have a wide host range. The release of such viruses from plants can lead to their dissemination in streams, lakes, and rivers, thereby ensuring the long-distance spread of viruses that otherwise, under natural conditions, would remain restricted to limited areas. The possible sources and survival of plant viruses in waters are therefore discussed. Due to the widespread use of hydroponic systems and intensive irrigation in horticulture, the review is focused on the possibility and importance of spreading viral infection by water, together with measures for preventing the spread of viruses. The development of new methods for detecting multiple plant viruses at the same time, like microarrays or new generation sequencing, will facilitate the monitoring of environmental waters and waters used for irrigation and in hydroponic systems. It is reasonable to expect that the list of plant viruses found in waters will thereby be expanded considerably. This will emphasize the need for further studies to determine the biological significance of water-mediated transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataša Mehle
- National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Ellis DI, Brewster VL, Dunn WB, Allwood JW, Golovanov AP, Goodacre R. Fingerprinting food: current technologies for the detection of food adulteration and contamination. Chem Soc Rev 2012; 41:5706-27. [DOI: 10.1039/c2cs35138b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 296] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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16
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Fenicia L, Fach P, van Rotterdam BJ, Anniballi F, Segerman B, Auricchio B, Delibato E, Hamidjaja RA, Wielinga PR, Woudstra C, Agren J, De Medici D, Knutsson R. Towards an international standard for detection and typing botulinum neurotoxin-producing Clostridia types A, B, E and F in food, feed and environmental samples: a European ring trial study to evaluate a real-time PCR assay. Int J Food Microbiol 2011; 145 Suppl 1:S152-7. [PMID: 21353718 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2011.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2010] [Revised: 02/01/2011] [Accepted: 02/01/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
A real-time PCR method for detection and typing of BoNT-producing Clostridia types A, B, E, and F was developed on the framework of the European Research Project "Biotracer". A primary evaluation was carried out using 104 strains and 17 clinical and food samples linked to botulism cases. Results showed 100% relative accuracy, 100% relative sensitivity, 100% relative specificity, and 100% selectivity (inclusivity on 73 strains and exclusivity on 31 strains) of the real-time PCR against the reference cultural method combined with the standard mouse bioassay. Furthermore, a ring trial study performed at four different European laboratories in Italy, France, the Netherlands, and Sweden was carried out using 47 strains, and 30 clinical and food samples linked to botulism cases. Results showed a concordance of 95.7% among the four laboratories. The reproducibility generated a relative standard deviation in the range of 2.18% to 13.61%. Considering the high level of agreement achieved between the laboratories, this real-time PCR is a suitable method for rapid detection and typing of BoNT-producing Clostridia in clinical, food and environmental samples and thus support the use of it as an international standard method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Fenicia
- Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety Department, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, National Reference Centre for Botulism, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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Knutsson R. A tracing tool portfolio to detect Bacillus anthracis, Clostridium botulinum and Noroviruses: bioterrorism is a food safety and security issue. Int J Food Microbiol 2010; 145 Suppl 1:S121-2. [PMID: 21324542 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2010.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rickard Knutsson
- Department of Bacteriology, National Veterinary Institute, SVA, Sweden.
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