Toxic agents detection

Table 4.1 Detection limits for various toxic agents detected by an enzyme electrode, or by the "Microtox" method (the concentrations correspond to an inhibition to 10% cf the enzymatic activity).

Endocrine disruptors apparently affect all nuclear receptors. Thus, a notable increment in impotence, alterations of the libido and of oligospermia in workers exposed to pesticides has been described. These alterations are due to the action of some compounds with estrogen-mimetic action and to their interaction with the androgen receptor. Additionally, alterations of thyroid function have been detected in rats exposed to dioxin and other toxic agents,... 

The detection team gives information about the toxic substances or groups of agents detected and prepares first report on the situation ... 

The problem of toxic subjects detection in the tested objects can be solved by two options chemical analysis, for revealing separate toxics, or their products, and biotesting with the result of the tested samples toxicity degree indication without identification of the agent. Qualitative and quantitative chrmical/analytical methods allow with the higher accuracy and, in some cases, rapidly detect presence of the separate toxics or their products in the tested objects. It is important for the regular detection of the different pollutions of any agents in the tested objects. 

Hydrazine compounds are widely used as fuels, corrosion inhibitors, catalysts, and dyes. However, such compounds are recognized as toxic agents consequently, their detection and processing are of much concern. Only a few recent papers pertain to the catalytic oxidation of hydrazine [148-150], with special emphasis... 

Forensic toxicology is concerned with the detection, for judicial purposes, of the unlawful use of toxic agents. 

Deaths have been described after venlafaxine overdose, but in combination with other agents and alcohol. However, there have been two fatal cases of overdosage in which venlafaxine was the only agent detected postmortem (30). It therefore appears that venlafaxine can occasionally prove fatal in overdosage, probably through cardiac conduction abnormalities and seizures (30,31). It is possible that poor metabolizers may be especially liable to develop toxic effects. 

Direct determinations of the toxic agent (OP nerve agent or pesticide) in the circulating system are also possible. However, the parent compound will circulate intact for a short period of time and detection will not be possible for... 

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