The Weaponizing Of Biology

Focusing on three forms of biological threat--bioterrorism, biocrime and biohacking--the author examines the history of biowarfare and terrorism. Groups drawn to biological aggression are discussed, along with the array of viruses, bacteria and toxins they might use in their attacks. The phenomenon of biocrime--biological aggression targeting individuals for personal rather than ideological reasons--is explored, along with the growing trend of biohacking. Part II presents case studies of bioterrorism and biocrime from the United States and Japan.

Scientific advances over the past several decades have accelerated the ability to engineer existing organisms and to potentially create novel ones not found in nature. Synthetic biology, which collectively refers to concepts, approaches, and tools that enable the modification or creation of biological organisms, is being pursued overwhelmingly for beneficial purposes ranging from reducing the burden of disease to improving agricultural yields to remediating pollution. Although the contributions synthetic biology can make in these and other areas hold great promise, it is also possible to imagine malicious uses that could threaten U.S. citizens and military personnel. Making informed decisions about how to address such concerns requires a realistic assessment of the capabilities that could be misused. Biodefense in the Age of Synthetic Biology explores and envisions potential misuses of synthetic biology. This report develops a framework to guide an assessment of the security concerns related to advances in synthetic biology, assesses the levels of concern warranted for such advances, and identifies options that could help mitigate those concerns.

This is the first attempt to understand the full scope of the USSR’s offensive biological weapons research, from inception in the 1920s. Gorbachev tried to end the program, but the U.S. and U.K. never obtained clear evidence that he succeeded, raising the question whether the means for waging biological warfare could be present in Russia today.

Bows and arrows, firearms, missiles and poop? The progress of invention marches forward through time as humans discover a new material to use in the manufacturing of weapons. People have a history of utilizing excrement for various uses. This book takes a look at this interesting development of warfare, and the redefinition of just what a stink bomb is. Investigating the elements of feces will shine a light on the effectiveness and possible danger posed by what we are all too happy to flush away. This memorable and accessible book is one that readers are sure to enjoy.

Fresh evidence from newly released sources clarifies the shocking story of Japanese human experiments in Manchuria during the War, and reveals the true extent of the subsequent US cover-up.

The purpose for this handbook is to serve as a concise pocket-sized manual that will guide medical personnel in the prophylaxis and management of biological casulties. It is designed as a quick reference and overview, and is not intended as a definitive text on the medical management of biological casualties.

"Nanoweapons describes the deadliest generation of military weaponry the world has ever seen and offers concrete recommendations for controlling their future use, thus avoiding global war and the end of humanity."--Provided by publisher.

None of us are ever really alone — not with the trillions and trillions of microbes that call our bodies home. Recent scientific research has uncovered just how interdependent our relationships with these tiny “hitchhikers” are, and that lots of them are actually good for us! Filled with intriguing information and just enough yuck factor, kids will be thrilled to discover what a big deal these small “critters” who live in and on their bodies are. No hand sanitizer required!