The radioimmunoassay (RIA) for the detection of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDs) can improve analytical efficiency through the identification of PCDD free samples. The present report describes a modified version of the assay that uses a stable [3H]-2,3,7,8-TCDD radio-ligand and a rapid (5 min) phase separation system that uses activated charcoal. The assay is repeatable, rapid (overnight), and sensitive (the estimated error associated with zero dose is 1.3 pg). A monoclonal antibody based version of the assay is also described. This report is intended as an aid for analysts who wish to implement the technique.

This report describes an analytical methodology developed in support of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act. The methodology is used to identify and quantify trace amounts of polychlorinated dibenzo-para-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) in pulp and paper mill effluents. The method detection limit depends on sample matrix characteristics and can be as low as 2-20 pg/L (parts per quadrillion) for PCDD and PCDF cogeners. The report describes sample collection, extraction, cleanup, chromatographic separation, and identification and quantification of tetra- through octa-CDD/CDF cogeners, including 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-para-dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD) and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzofuran (2,3,7,8-TCDF).

This book is an updated, completely revised version of a previous volume in this series entitled: ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS -- Techniques, applications and quality assurance. The book treats different aspects of environmental analysis such as sample handling and analytical techniques, the applications to trace analysis of pollutants (mainly organic compounds), and quality assurance aspects, including the use of certified reference materials for the quality control of the whole analytical process. New analytical techniques are presented that have been developed significantly over the last 6 years, like solid phase microextraction, microwave-assisted extraction, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometric methods, immunoassays, and biosensors. The book is divided into four sections. The first describes field sampling techniques and sample preparation in environmental matrices: water, soil, sediment and biota. The second section covers the application areas which are either based on techniques, like the use of gas chromatography-atomic emission detection, immunoassays, or coupled-column liquid chromatography, or on specific application areas, like chlorinated compounds, pesticides, phenols, mycotoxins, phytotoxins, radionuclides, industrial effluents and wastes, including mine waste. Validation and quality assurance are described in the third section, together with the interpretation of environmental data using advanced chemometric techniques. The final section reports the use of somewhat advanced analytical methods, usually more expensive, less routinely used or less developed, for the determination of pollutants.

Antibodies Applications and New Developments is an overview of the current developments of techniques and methods relating to immunodiagnostics and immunoanalysis. This eBook also deals with specialties in the fields of drug, pesticide, antigen and food contaminant detection. The volume is useful for professional immunologists and biotechnologists interested in antibody research and development.