A Novel Method for Training the Interdiction of Restricted and Hazardous Biological Materials by Detection Dogs.

The interdiction of restricted and hazardous biological agents presents challenges for any detection method due to the inherent complexity of sample type and accessibility. Detection capabilities for this category of agents are limited and restricted in their mobility, adaptability and efficiency. The potential for identifying biological agents through a volatile organic compound (VOC) signature presents an opportunity to use detection dogs in a real-time mobile capacity for surveillance and screening strategies. However, the safe handling and access to the materials needed for training detection dogs on restricted or hazardous biological agents prevents its broader application in this field. This study evaluated the use of a polymer-based training aid in a viral detection model using bovine viral diarrhea virus mimicking biosafety level 3+ agent conditions. After the biological agent-based odor was absorbed into the polymer, the aid was rendered safe for handling through a rigorous sterilization process. The viral culture-based training aid was then used to train a cohort of detection dogs (

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Copyright © 2022 Singletary, Krichbaum, Passler, Lazarowski, Fischer, Silvis, Waggoner, Walz and Angle.

Déclaration de conflit d'intérêts

CA, TP, TF, and LW are represented on the patent, pending (TRAINING AID Patent Pending 2020 338518: 47-19 US). The remaining authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.