The cellular localisation of diphenylacetylene fluorophores can be influenced by modifying their structure, modulating lipophilicity and incorporating ionisable groups.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are naturally produced compounds that play important roles in cell signaling, gene regulation, and biological defense, including involvement in the oxidative burst that is central to the anti-microbial actions of macrophages. However, these highly reactive, short-lived radical species also stimulate cells to undergo programmed cell death at high concentrations, as well as causing detrimental effects such as oxidation of macromolecules at more moderate levels. Imaging ROS is highly challenging, with many researchers working on the challenge over the past 10–15 years without producing a definitive method. We report a new fluorescence microscopy-based technique, Bullseye Analysis. This methodology is based on concepts provided by the FRAP (Fluorescence Recovery after Photobleaching) technique and refined to evidence the spatiotemporal production of ROS, and the subsequent consequences, on a subcellular scale. To exemplify the technique, we have used the ROS-reporter dye, CellROX, and the ROS-inducing photosensitizer, LightOx58, a potent source of ROS compared with UV irradiation alone. Further validation of the technique was carried out using differing co-stains, notably Mitotracker and JC-1.

Autonomous weapon systems (AWS) are an emerging technology not currently subject to any specific regulation. This article examines the nature of automation in pre-cursor technologies for three different aspects of AWS to determine regulatory best practices that can be applied to these systems. Automation in target selection is explored in the context of pre-determined target lists, which function in similar ways to entering targets into the memory of an AWS. Automation in target engagement is considered using an example of ‘The Electronic Battlefield’ from the Vietnam War that, despite the less capable technologies of the time, demonstrates key elements of how AWS operate. The absence of human involvement is considered in relation to two types of mines that have been regulated on the international level and evaluates dimensions of control that could be useful to apply to AWS. Conclusions about automation for each aspect are used to determine best practices for regulating use of AWS. From these best practices, an outline of a legally required minimum level of human control is also developed.