The analytical toxicologist may be required to detect, identify, and in many cases measure a wide variety of compounds in samples from almost any part of the body or in related materials such as residues in syringes or in soil. This book gives principles and practical information on the analysis of drugs and poisons in biological specimens, particularly clinical and forensic specimens. After providing some background information the book covers aspects of sample collection, transport, storage and disposal, and sample preparation. Analytical techniques - colour tests and spectrophotometry, chromatography and electrophoresis, mass spectrometry, and immunoassay - are covered in depth, and a chapter is devoted to the analysis of trace elements and toxic metals. General aspects of method implementation/validation and laboratory operation are detailed, as is the role of the toxicology laboratory in validating and monitoring the performance of point of care testing (POCT) devices. The book concludes with reviews of xenobiotic absorption, distribution and metabolism, pharmacokinetics, and general aspects of the interpretation of analytical toxicology results. A clearly written, practical, integrated approach to the basics of analytical toxicology. Focuses on analytical, statistical and pharmacokinetic principles rather than detailed applications. Assumes only a basic knowledge of analytical chemistry. An accompanying website provides additional material and links to related sites. Written by an experienced team of authors,Fundamentals of Analytical Toxicology is an invaluable resource for those starting out in a career in analytical toxicology across a wide range of disciplines including clinical and forensic science, food safety, and pharmaceutical development. © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd

Purpose The purpose of this study is to estimate the price and life-saving potential of alternate foods. The sun could be blocked by asteroid impact, supervolcanic eruption or nuclear winter caused by burning of cities during a nuclear war. The primary problem in these scenarios is loss of food production. Previous work has shown that alternate foods not dependent on sunlight, such as bacteria grown on natural gas and cellulose turned into sugar enzymatically, could feed everyone in these catastrophes, and preparation for these foods would save lives in a manner that is highly cost-effective. Design/methodology/approach This study estimates the price of alternate foods during a catastrophe in line with global trade and information sharing, but factors such as migration, loans, aid or conflict are not taken into consideration. Findings Without alternate foods, for a five-year winter, only approximately 10 per cent of the population would survive. The price of dry food would rise to approximately $100/kg, and the expenditure on this food would be approximately $100tn. If alternate foods were $8/kg, the surviving global population increases to approximately 70 per cent, saving >4billion lives. Research limitations/implications A nongovernmental mechanism for coordinating the investments of rich people may be possible. Identifying companies whose interests align with alternate food preparations may save lives at a negative cost. Practical implications The probability of loss of civilization and its impact on future generations would be lower in this scenario, and the total expenditure on food would be halved. Originality/value Preparation for alternate foods is a good investment even for wealthy people who would survive without alternate foods.

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